Lemon Garlic Spaghetti

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Lemon Garlic Spaghetti is a zesty, quick-to-make dish that bursts with flavor and freshness. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Spaghetti

Spaghetti serves as the base of this dish, soaking up the flavors beautifully without overpowering the other ingredients. Garlic adds depth and a fragrant aroma when sautéed in olive oil. Speaking of which, extra virgin olive oil acts as a rich, flavorful carrier for the garlic and lemon, tying everything together. The lemon zest and juice bring a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the cheese and oil. Salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for seasoning; adjust them to enhance the flavors to your liking. Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty finish, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Don't skimp on the lemon zest; it packs a lot of flavor.
  • If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
  • Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. A side of crusty bread can be perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled shrimp or chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute with any pasta you like, but cooking times may vary.
Is there a vegan alternative for Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can use nutritional yeast or a store-bought vegan Parmesan substitute.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil.

Lemon Garlic Spaghetti Recipe Walkthrough

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente — firm to the bite but cooked through. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Next, heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, just until it's fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn as it can turn bitter.

Now, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic-infused oil to make sure it's well coated. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, and give it a good mix. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Keep tossing everything together so the flavors meld nicely.

Once your spaghetti is evenly coated and seasoned, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss it again to ensure the cheese melts slightly and clings to the spaghetti strands. Finally, garnish with a generous handful of fresh parsley. This will not only make your dish look vibrant but also add a fresh, herby flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
  • Bright and refreshing: The lemon zest and juice add a tangy twist.
  • Simple ingredients: You probably have most of them in your kitchen right now.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust to your taste or add your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic oil.
4. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese, tossing again to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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