Introduction
This delicious lemon garlic spaghetti is a perfect dish for any occasion, combining the zesty flavor of fresh lemons with the richness of butter and cheese. Quick to prepare and delightful to eat, it showcases simple ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
4 quarts water
1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (⅜ stick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
16 ounces dry spaghetti (1 pound)
2 fresh lemons, juiced and zested; zest divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (Italian flat-leaf preferred)
Optional Garnishes
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Water
Fill a large pot with 4 quarts of water and add 1 tablespoon of coarse sea salt. Set over high heat and bring to a boil.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While waiting for the water to boil, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over low heat.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
Once the water is boiling, add 16 ounces of dry spaghetti.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Add half of the lemon zest (about 1 tablespoon) and all of the minced garlic to the melted butter and olive oil mixture.
Step 5: Timer Set
Set a timer for 5 minutes, stirring both the boiling pasta and the butter mixture frequently.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
When the timer goes off, use a spaghetti server spoon to transfer the pasta from the boiling water directly into the pan with the cooking sauce.
Step 7: Mix in Liquid
Add the lemon juice and 1 cup of the pasta cooking water into the pan with the spaghetti.
Step 8: Cook in Sauce
Keep the pan on low heat and cook the pasta in the lemon sauce for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 9: Final Adjustments
Add the remaining lemon zest, ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 10: Add Fresh Herbs
Remove the pan from heat and stir in 4 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.
Step 11: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Pasta Cooking Tips
Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it’s cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
Note 2: Cheese Options
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Note 3: Fresh Herbs
Italian flat-leaf parsley works best in this recipe, but you can substitute with other fresh herbs if desired.
Note 4: Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the dish before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
Note 5: Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add coarse sea salt to enhance the flavor of the spaghetti as it cooks.
Melt Butter and Olive Oil
In a sauté pan, melt butter combined with olive oil over low heat. This mixture creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
Transferring Pasta
Use a spaghetti server spoon to transfer cooked spaghetti directly into the sauté pan. This method helps to retain some pasta cooking water for the sauce.
Stirring and Mixing
Stir frequently while cooking the pasta in the sauce to ensure the spaghetti is evenly coated and absorbs flavors.
Adding Zest and Juice
Incorporate lemon zest and juice to brighten the flavors of the dish, enhancing the overall taste and aroma.
Finishing with Cheese and Seasoning
Mix in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with sea salt and black pepper to give depth and richness to the dish.
Garnishing
Serve the pasta with optional garnishes like additional Parmesan, olive oil, and seasonings for added flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used as a healthier alternative, though it may alter the texture slightly.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used as alternatives for a similar flavor profile.
Is it necessary to add lemon juice?
Adding lemon juice is recommended for flavor; however, you can omit it if you prefer a less tangy taste.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to include vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Conclusion
This lemon garlic spaghetti is a refreshing and vibrant dish that showcases simple ingredients in a delightful way. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and rich Parmesan creates a perfectly balanced sauce that clings to the pasta, making each bite a burst of flavor. This recipe not only highlights the ingredients but also offers versatility for pairing with various protein or vegetable additions, making it a staple dish that can be enjoyed any night of the week.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost that complements the lemon and garlic nicely.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or asparagus, to add color and nutrition to the meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for unique flavor variations.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pair with a side salad featuring arugula and cherry tomatoes for a complete dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different twist on this classic dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce for an indulgent treat.
