Quick Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe

Lemon Garlic Pasta is like a warm hug from your favorite aunt—comforting, familiar, and just the right amount of zesty. Picture this: twirling strands of al dente spaghetti coated in a luscious sauce that dances between bright citrus notes and earthy garlic undertones. As the aroma wafts through your kitchen, it’s impossible not to feel a rush of excitement.

This dish reminds me of summer evenings spent on the patio with friends, laughter ringing out as we dug into bowls of this garlicky goodness. Whether it’s date night or a casual family dinner, Lemon Garlic Pasta fits perfectly into any occasion. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing!

I once made this dish for my friends during an impromptu dinner party, and let’s just say they were begging for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: Use about 12 ounces of spaghetti; it holds sauces well and gives you that perfect twirl.
• Fresh Garlic: Aim for four cloves; fresh garlic packs a flavor punch that pre-minced versions can’t match.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness; consider using one you love to drizzle on salads too.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed from one large lemon; bottled juice simply can’t compete with the vibrant taste.
• Lemon Zest: Grate zest from the same lemon; it intensifies the citrus flavor and adds lovely color.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully into the sauce and elevates every bite.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up both the dish and your plate; choose flat-leaf for better flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; always adjust to taste as you go along.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Get That Water Boiling: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add salt once boiling—this is crucial for seasoning the pasta.

Cook the Spaghetti: Add spaghetti to boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sauté the Garlic: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes—be careful not to brown it!

Mix in Citrus Goodness: Once your kitchen smells divine from that sizzling garlic, pour in fresh lemon juice along with zest. Stir gently to combine while letting those flavors mingle.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain spaghetti when done but reserve some cooking water. Toss drained spaghetti into the skillet with lemon-garlic sauce—add splashes of reserved water if needed to loosen up.

Finish with Flavor Boosters: Remove from heat and fold in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Toss chopped parsley throughout for freshness before serving hot.

Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your preferences!

Now you’ve got a bowlful of pure joy waiting for you. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Pasta!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta while sautéing garlic in olive oil. This multitasking approach ensures everything comes together seamlessly and retains maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pasta shape or toss in veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. Personalize it to suit your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lemon garlic pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil.

This lemon garlic pasta always reminds me of those cozy evenings with friends, gathered around my tiny kitchen table, sharing stories and laughter while twirling our forks in deliciousness.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free options.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply substitute butter with olive oil and omit any cheese for a delightful vegan version.

What protein pairs well with lemon garlic pasta?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas all work wonderfully to add protein without overpowering flavors.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Lemon Garlic Pasta

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Garlic Pasta is a quick and vibrant dish that brings together zesty lemon and aromatic garlic for a delightful meal ready in just 20 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4 cloves fresh garlic
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and zest; mix well.
4. Drain the spaghetti, reserving some cooking water. Add it to the skillet with the lemon-garlic sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved water if needed.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

• Customize by using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
•  Add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
•  For a vegan version, omit cheese and use vegan butter or olive oil.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (200g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 63g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 20mg