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Italian Lemon Garlic Pasta

A bright, flavorful pasta with garlic, lemon, and Parmesan — light, simple, and ready in 20 minutes for an authentic Italian meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 2 lemons zested
  • 1 lemon juiced (about 3 tbsp)
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup reserved pasta water
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Tongs
  • Zester

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
  4. Add lemon zest and juice, stir gently.
  5. Add pasta and toss with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
  6. Stir in Parmesan and toss until melted and creamy.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Garnish with parsley and extra lemon zest before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or more butter before serving.