Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this flavorful spaghetti, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Simple Cooking Instructions
This recipe is straightforward and can be completed in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- While the spaghetti cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add the spaghetti to the skillet, along with lemon zest, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water.
- Toss well to combine, season with salt and pepper, and mix in the fresh parsley. Cook for an additional minute to absorb flavors.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Customization Tips
This zesty lemon garlic spaghetti can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or throw in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor. For a creamier texture, mix in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta. Enjoy your delicious, aromatic dinner!