Description

This flavorful pasta recipe offers a vibrant blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest, creating a simple yet delicious dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The pasta is cooked al dente and tossed in a fragrant olive oil sauce with garlic, red pepper flakes, fresh basil, parsley, and finished with Parmesan cheese for an irresistible taste experience in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)

Sauce

1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Herbs and Cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

Citrus

Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1/2 lemon

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden but not burnt.
Season the Sauce: Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste to the garlic and oil mixture, stirring to combine the flavors.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic olive oil sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Incorporate Pasta Water: Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time to the skillet while tossing, helping the sauce cling smoothly to the pasta.
Add Fresh Herbs and Citrus: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, fresh parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice to infuse the dish with bright, herbaceous flavors.
Mix Thoroughly: Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce, herbs, and lemon ingredients.
Serve: Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Optionally garnish with extra fresh herbs.
Enjoy Immediately: Serve the pasta hot for the best flavor and texture, enjoying the delightful combination of garlic, herbs, lemon, and cheese.

Notes

Reserve some pasta water as it helps to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
Adjust red pepper flakes quantity according to your spice preference or omit for a milder flavor.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.
Fresh herbs can be substituted or supplemented with oregano or thyme depending on availability.
Serve immediately as the pasta absorbs the sauce quickly and is best enjoyed fresh.