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Lemon Basil Spaghetti is a vibrant, zesty dish that brings together the freshness of basil and the bright notes of lemon for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this pasta dish is perfect for busy evenings when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Basil Spaghetti is not just easy to make; it’s bursting with flavor and can be on your table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing friends, this dish is sure to satisfy.
- Quick preparation—ready in 30 minutes!
- Fresh ingredients for a burst of flavor.
- Perfectly balanced with zesty lemon and aromatic basil.
- Versatile and easy to customize.
- Healthier comfort food option.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Lemon Basil Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Once the spaghetti is done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Pour in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried basil won’t provide the same aromatic quality.
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Adjust the lemon juice to suit your taste—add more for extra zing or less if you prefer a milder flavor.
Easy Variations
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Toss in cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- Substitute the spaghetti with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
What to Serve With It
- A light Caesar salad to complement the flavors.
- Garlic bread for a satisfying crunch.
- Roasted vegetables for a colorful side dish.
Storage and Reheating
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to prevent sticking.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Once the spaghetti is done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Pour in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side.
Notes: For extra flavor, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat!
