Keyword: comfort food, easy pasta recipe, homemade pasta, Italian Lemon Garlic Pasta, quick dinner, weeknight meal
Prep Time: 5 minutesminutes
Cook Time: 10 minutesminutes
Total Time: 15 minutesminutes
Servings: 4servings
Calories: 400kcal
Equipment
Large pot
Skillet
Measuring cups
measuring spoons
Knife
Cutting Board
Ingredients
For the Pasta
8ozspaghettiFeel free to swap with linguine, fettuccine, or bucatini if preferred.
½cupreserved pasta waterHelps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
For the Sauce
4tablespoonunsalted butterAdds rich creaminess.
4tablespoonolive oilA splash for tossing before serving.
6-8clovesgarlicminced, for aroma.
1teaspoonItalian seasoningA mix of herbs.
2lemonszestBrightens the dish.
1lemonjuiceAdjust to taste.
For the Finish
⅓cupfresh parsleychopped, for freshness.
Kosher saltFor seasoning.
Freshly cracked black pepperTo taste.
Grated Parmesan cheeseFor garnishing.
Crushed red pepper flakesOptional, for heat.
Instructions
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 8 oz of spaghetti and cook until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 6-8 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and the zest of 2 lemons, cooking for 30 seconds.
Pour in the juice of 1 lemon, letting it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water.
Remove from heat and fold in ⅓ cup of chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Plate the pasta, topping with grated Parmesan cheese and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
Notes
Cook spaghetti al dente and avoid browning garlic for the best flavor. Adjust seasonings according to taste. Use high-quality ingredients for optimal flavor.