Description
This flavorful pasta recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta with a vibrant garlic and olive oil sauce, enhanced by fresh herbs, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and easy dish that delivers a delightful burst of taste in every bite, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Herbs & Cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Flavor Enhancers
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté Garlic and Spices: Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the hot olive oil. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, ensuring it does not burn.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste to the skillet, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta in the garlic and olive oil sauce evenly.
- Add Reserved Pasta Water: Gradually pour in the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time while tossing. This helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta and adds moisture.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs and Lemon: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice to infuse the dish with bright, fresh flavors.
- Mix Thoroughly: Toss the pasta gently until the herbs and lemon elements are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add extra fresh herbs if desired for garnish.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Relish a perfect balance of zesty, savory, and herbaceous notes in every bite.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of pasta water or a tablespoon of butter when tossing the pasta.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level, or omit entirely for a milder dish.
- Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor impact; pre-grated versions may not melt as well.
- Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
