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Quick 15 Minute Lemon Garlic Pasta

A bright and flavorful pasta made with fresh lemon, garlic, olive oil, and parmesan that comes together in just 15 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon zest from one lemon
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice fresh
  • 0.5 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 0.25 cup pasta water reserved
  • 2 tbsp parsley chopped
  • 0.5 tsp salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Citrus zester

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
  2. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
  5. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice.
  6. Add the drained pasta and about 1/4 cup reserved pasta water.
  7. Toss with parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
  8. Serve immediately with extra parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor. Add shrimp or grilled chicken for a heartier version.