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Easy 20 Minute Lemon Garlic Pasta

Easy 20 Minute Lemon Garlic Pasta That Will Brighten Your Day

A quick and flavorful dish combining lemon and garlic for a satisfying pasta meal in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz spaghetti cook until al dente
  • 1/2 cup pasta water reserve before draining
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter adds richness
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil use high-quality
  • 6–8 cloves garlic, minced adjust to preference
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning enhances flavor
  • Zest of 2 lemons captures fresh essence
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice adds tanginess
For the Garnish
  • 3 oz capers, drained adds bursts of flavor
  • 1/3 cup fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness
  • Kosher salt season to taste
  • Fresh cracked pepper to enhance flavor
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Crushed red pepper flakes optional for heat

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large sauté pan

Method
 

How to Make Easy 20 Minute Lemon Garlic Pasta
  1. Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining!
  2. In a large sauté pan, melt the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. This will create a luscious base for your sauce.
  3. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden.
  4. Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, capers, and chopped parsley along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together and cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
  5. Gently add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, tossing to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  6. Allow the dish to cook for about 1 minute, or until heated through. If it looks dry, add more pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
  7. Taste your creation, adjusting with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish generously with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for that perfect finishing touch!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 9gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with olive oil for best results. Freeze unserved portions for up to 2 months.

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