Lemon and Basil Linguine
Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavor, Lemon and Basil Linguine is the ultimate quick and easy weeknight dinner that feels gourmet. This light yet creamy dish features tender linguine coated in a velvety lemon garlic sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Freshly chopped basil adds a fragrant herbal touch, while a hint of optional chili flakes brings a subtle kick. Perfect for citrus lovers, this recipe balances tangy lemon with rich, buttery textures, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Ready in just 25 minutes, this pasta masterpiece is ideal for busy evenings or casual gatherings. Serve it as-is or pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for an unbeatable meal. Whether it’s spring, summer, or any time you crave fresh flavors, Lemon and Basil Linguine is sure to impress!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 400 g linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 120 ml heavy cream
- 60 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 20 g fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 120 ml reserved pasta water
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic.
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the cream is well incorporated, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the cream sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using).
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves.
Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and basil leaves if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Lemon and Basil Linguine!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
390 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 22.3 g | 29% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.1 g | 51% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 45 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 525 mg | 23% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.9 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.0 g | ||
| Protein | 12.2 g | 24% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 190 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 1.4 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 129 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
