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Quick Lemon Basil Pasta

This pasta dish combines quick-cooking noodles with fragrant garlic, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon for a bright, flavorful meal. The ingredients are tossed together in a single skillet, creating a silky sauce with a final texture that’s tender, vibrant, and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a simple yet memorable dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta (e.g., spaghetti or linguine) quick-cooking variety
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 whole lemon zested and squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality, fruity
  • 1/2 cup pasta water reserved from boiling pasta
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Chef’s knife
  • Slotted spoon
  • Measuring cup

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden, but not browned.
  3. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the starchy pasta water. Add the hot pasta directly into the skillet with garlic and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil over the pasta, tossing gently to combine. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a smooth, silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
  5. Zest and squeeze the lemon over the pasta, then toss again until everything is well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan if desired, and enjoy the bright, flavorful bites of this quick pasta.

Notes

For an extra touch, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.