Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Recipe – A Flavorful Delight

Lemon Basil Pasta is like a sun-soaked vacation on your plate, bursting with vibrant flavors and delightful aromas. Imagine twirling strands of perfectly cooked pasta, dancing in a zesty lemony sauce, while fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that’ll transport you straight to an Italian garden. The moment you take that first bite, expect a refreshing wave of flavor to wash over you, making even the grumpiest of taste buds smile.

This dish holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of summer evenings spent at my grandmother’s table, where laughter mingled with the scent of fresh herbs. It’s the perfect dish for casual dinners or fancy gatherings, promising an unforgettable experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Get ready to savor a flavor adventure that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!

One time, I prepared this dish for friends who claimed they didn’t like pasta; by the end of dinner, they were licking their plates clean!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite type; spaghetti or fettuccine works wonderfully for this recipe.

• Fresh Basil: Use bright green leaves; the fresher, the better for that aromatic punch.

• Lemons: Zest and juice them; they provide the essential zing and brightness you crave.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; avoid pre-minced varieties for maximum flavor.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness and health benefits.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances the overall flavor; always opt for real Parmigiano-Reggiano when possible.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those wonderful flavors in the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in minced garlic until fragrant and golden brown—about 1-2 minutes—being careful not to burn it.

Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest into the skillet. The aroma will be intoxicating! Stir well to combine all those fabulous flavors.

Toss in Basil and Cheese: Add chopped fresh basil leaves along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Give everything a good toss until well-coated—it should look heavenly.

Combine with Pasta: Drain your cooked pasta (remember to save some pasta water). Add it directly into the skillet with your sauce mixture, tossing gently to combine everything thoroughly.

Adjust Seasoning and Serve**: Taste your creation! Add salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately while piping hot, garnished with extra basil or cheese if desired—and enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

• This Lemon Basil Pasta recipe balances bright flavors with a delightful aroma
• The fresh basil and tangy lemon make it a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
• It’s quick to prepare yet feels gourmet!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta, then sauté garlic and add lemon juice while it cooks. Combine everything right before serving for maximum flavor retention.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pasta for zoodles or add grilled chicken for extra protein. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Lemon Basil Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to revive it.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Use fresh basil for the best taste; dried basil just doesn’t cut it here
• Always reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later
• Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be al dente to hold its shape and texture beautifully

Sharing this Lemon Basil Pasta with friends at a summer picnic brought everyone together, filled with laughter and compliments about my culinary skills—who knew pasta could be so popular?

FAQ

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Using fresh basil is recommended for optimal flavor; dried won’t deliver the same punch.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week as leftovers.

What can I pair with Lemon Basil Pasta?

Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a light salad to enhance your meal experience.

Print

Lemon Basil Pasta

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant taste of Lemon Basil Pasta, a refreshing dish that brings the essence of summer right to your table. This easy-to-make recipe features al dente pasta tossed in a zesty lemon sauce, infused with fresh basil and garlic. Perfect for casual dinners or elegant gatherings, every bite promises a burst of flavor that will leave your guests asking for more!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
3. Stir in lemon juice and zest, mixing well.
4. Add chopped basil and Parmesan cheese to the skillet; toss to combine.
5. Incorporate the drained pasta into the skillet, mixing thoroughly. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or cheese as desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling, Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 280g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 64g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp. Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.