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Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

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4 from 33 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Lemon Spaghetti is a bright and zesty pasta dish that combines the fresh flavors of lemon juice and zest with parmesan cheese, olive oil, and basil. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a light, refreshing meal that bursts with citrus flavor and creamy texture.

Ingredients

Spaghetti

  • 16 ounces spaghetti

Lemon Sauce

  • 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
  • Ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta. Cook spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the rest and set the spaghetti aside.
  2. Prepare the Lemon Juice and Zest. While the pasta cooks, zest and juice the lemons; you should get about 1/2 cup of lemon juice. If the yield is less, supplement with bottled lemon juice to total 1/2 cup.
  3. Make the Lemon Sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, grated parmesan, salt, and ground black pepper until well combined.
  4. Toss Pasta with Sauce. Add the spaghetti to the lemon sauce and toss it thoroughly to coat every strand evenly. Then stir in the lemon zest and chopped fresh basil.
  5. Adjust Sauce Consistency. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, little by little, while tossing until the sauce clings perfectly to the pasta and thickens slightly for a creamy texture.
  6. Garnish and Serve. Top the pasta with additional fresh basil, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • If you don’t have fresh lemons, use bottled lemon juice to make up the difference.
  • For extra richness, add a dollop of butter or cream when mixing the sauce.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
  • Reserve pasta water is key to achieving a smooth, cohesive sauce.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end to taste, especially salt and pepper.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/lemon-spaghetti-recipe/