Lemon Spaghetti is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances the rich and comforting elements of pasta with the zesty and invigorating flavors of lemon. This Italian-inspired recipe brings a burst of sunshine to your plate, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying meal.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Keyword Lemon, Spaghetti
Total Time 15 minutesminutes
Servings 4
Calories 564kcal
Ingredients
12oz340 g spaghetti
1/4cup60 ml extra-virgin olive oil
1/4cup60 ml fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2cup50 g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepperto taste
1/4cup15 g fresh basil leaves, chopped
1clovegarlicminced (optional)
1/4cup60 ml pasta cooking water
Lemon wedgesfor garnish
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 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If using garlic, add it now and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and zest.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the lemon mixture. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring constantly, until the pasta is glossy and the sauce clings to it.
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again until well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Transfer the lemon spaghetti to serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil and a wedge of lemon.