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–+ servings
Italian Lemon Garlic Pasta

Zesty Italian Lemon Garlic Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes

Experience the vibrant flavors of Italian Lemon Garlic Pasta, a quick and delightful dish that transports you straight to Italy.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz spaghetti Feel free to swap for linguine, fettuccine, or bucatini based on preference.
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water Helps create a luscious sauce.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoon unsalted butter Adds richness without overpowering the lemon zest.
  • 4 tablespoon olive oil Use extra for tossing later for added flavor.
  • 6–8 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced garlic delivers the best aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adds depth to every bite.
  • 2 tablespoon zest of 2 lemons Brightens the dish; avoid the white pith.
  • 2 tablespoon juice of 1 lemon Brings a splash of acidity.
For Finishing Touches
  • ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped Adds color and flavor.
  • Kosher salt To taste.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper To taste.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese A creamy topping.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes Optional for those who crave heat.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Fill a large pot with water and salt. Bring to a boil and cook 8 oz of spaghetti until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and toss with olive oil.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 4 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 6–8 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
  3. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and the zest of 2 lemons to the skillet. Stir for about 30 seconds to release the aromatic oils.
  4. Pour in the juice of 1 lemon and simmer for 1–2 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing with the sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water until emulsified and glossy.
  6. Fold in ⅓ cup of chopped fresh parsley and season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  7. Plate the pasta, topping with grated Parmesan cheese and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best flavor, taste the pasta for doneness a minute early and adjust lemon levels to preference.

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