Lemon Basil Spaghetti
Brighten up your dinner table with this irresistibly zesty Lemon Basil Spaghetti, a light yet flavorful pasta dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe showcases a vibrant blend of freshly squeezed lemon juice, fragrant basil, and savory Parmesan cheese, all tossed with al dente spaghetti for a refreshing twist on a classic Italian favorite. A hint of garlic and optional red pepper flakes add depth and a touch of heat, while a splash of reserved pasta water ensures the sauce clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. Serve this citrusy and herbaceous delight garnished with extra basil and Parmesan for an elegant, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect keywords: lemon basil spaghetti, quick pasta recipes, light summer dinners, vegetarian pasta dishes.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.25 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.5 cup water, reserved from pasta
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
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 let it brown.
Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and then add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat the spaghetti in the lemon mixture.
Add the chopped basil, grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss well to combine.
Slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, tossing and stirring, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1317 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 69.3 g | 89% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.3 g | 116% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 80 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 3738 mg | 163% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 118.6 g | 43% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.7 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.0 g | ||
| Protein | 57.6 g | 115% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1192 mg | 92% | |
| Iron | 15.9 mg | 88% | |
| Potassium | 734 mg | 16% | |
*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.
