Description
A bright and simple Mediterranean pasta made with lemon, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan — ready in under 20 minutes. Perfectly balanced, light, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
5–6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over low heat. Add garlic and cook gently until golden.
3. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then add a splash of reserved pasta water to create an emulsion.
4. Toss the drained pasta directly into the skillet and mix well to coat evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper, add Parmesan and parsley, and toss once more before serving.
Notes
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Avoid browning the garlic — gentle heat keeps it sweet and fragrant.
Reserve some pasta water; its starch helps thicken the sauce naturally.
Serve with grilled shrimp, chicken, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 10mg