Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta: A Bright Summer Delight

Lemon Basil Pasta is like a sun-kissed summer day served on a plate. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked spaghetti around your fork, each bite bursting with the fresh zing of lemons and the aromatic embrace of basil. The vibrant colors and fragrant aroma invite you to dive right in, making it impossible to resist.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration! I remember the first time I made Lemon Basil Pasta for my family. Everyone was gathered around the table, and as soon as they took their first bite, their eyes lit up with joy. It’s that kind of dish—perfect for casual weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

I once served this dish at a potluck, and everyone kept asking for the recipe. It was a huge hit!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Pasta: I love using spaghetti, but any long pasta will do; just avoid those tiny shapes that look like confetti.

• Fresh Basil: Choose bright green leaves; they should smell heavenly and be free from brown spots.

• Lemons: Use fresh lemons for zesting and juicing—those plastic ones just don’t cut it in flavor.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; don’t skimp on quality here—it makes a difference.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves pack more flavor than pre-minced varieties; trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own if possible; the fresher it is, the more delicious your pasta will be.

• Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate every dish; use them generously but wisely!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that’ll have your kitchen smelling divine!

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. You want it firm enough to hold its shape yet soft enough to twirl around your fork.

Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—being careful not to burn it. The smell alone will have you drooling!

Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Once that garlic is golden and aromatic, squeeze in fresh lemon juice and add lemon zest. Stir well until combined; this step boosts all those citrusy flavors we love.

Toss in Fresh Basil: Add chopped basil to your skillet and stir until wilted slightly. This only takes about 1-2 minutes—the goal is to keep that vibrant green color intact while infusing the oil with basil goodness.

Combine Pasta & Sauce: Drain your pasta (reserving some cooking water) and toss it into the skillet with the lemon-basil mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired creaminess.

Finish with Parmesan Cheese: Remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over your pasta before giving everything one last toss. The cheese will melt into every crevice of pasta, creating an irresistible coating.

Now sit back and admire your masterpiece! Serve immediately with additional Parmesan on top if you’re feeling extra cheesy.

Enjoy this zesty Lemon Basil Pasta that’s sure to brighten up any meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling pasta until al dente while simultaneously heating olive oil and garlic in a pan. This way, everything comes together seamlessly for a harmonious dish.

Add Your Touch

Customize your Lemon Basil Pasta by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor. You can even swap out basil for parsley if you prefer a different herb profile!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to maintain moisture and flavor.

It’s funny how this Lemon Basil Pasta became my go-to dish when I realized I could whip it up in under 30 minutes. Friends always rave about it, and I just nod, pretending I’m some culinary genius!

FAQ

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti or fettuccine complements the sauce beautifully and captures all those zesty flavors.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply omit any cheese and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added depth.

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Lemon Basil Pasta

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Lemon Basil Pasta is a refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This vibrant pasta combines perfectly cooked spaghetti with zesty lemon juice, aromatic basil, and freshly sautéed garlic, creating a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this easy recipe will impress your family and friends alike.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 medium lemons (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. 3. Stir in lemon juice and zest; mix well.
4. 4. Add chopped basil to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
5. 5. Toss cooked pasta with the lemon-basil mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
6. 6. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese, tossing to combine. Serve immediately.

• Author: James
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 10mg