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–+ servings
Italian Lemon Garlic Pasta

Italian Lemon Garlic Pasta: Fresh, Zesty Comfort in Minutes

This Italian Lemon Garlic Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish packed with fresh ingredients, ideal for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner Ideas
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz spaghetti You can also use linguine, fettuccine, or bucatini.
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water Essential for emulsifying the sauce.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoon unsalted butter Adds richness and smooth texture.
  • 4 tablespoon olive oil Use quality extra virgin for best flavor.
  • 6–8 cloves garlic, minced (~2 tbsp) Fresh garlic infuses sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Herb blend that complements the dish.
  • Zest of 2 lemons (~2 tbsp) Brightens up the dish.
  • Juice of 1 lemon (~2 tbsp) Provides the tangy kick.
For Garnishing
  • ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness.
  • Kosher salt To taste.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper To taste.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese For garnish.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) For heat.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti for 8–10 minutes until al dente, reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and lemon zest. Toast for about 30 seconds while stirring.
  4. Pour in lemon juice and let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Gradually add reserved pasta water while stirring to emulsify.
  6. Remove from heat and fold in chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Plate the pasta hot, garnishing with Parmesan and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and adjust spices to your preference for a personalized flavor.

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