Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Basil Pasta is packed with flavors that burst in your mouth with every bite. The tangy lemon provides a refreshing zing, while the basil adds a herby, aromatic undertone that perfectly complements the dish. The combination of fresh ingredients and the simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something to impress your guests, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients

8 oz of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the zest and juice of the lemon to the skillet, followed by the chopped basil. Stir to combine.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta in the lemon and basil mixture. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce adhere.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of butter.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-3
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables to make this dish heartier.
Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan cheese and butter, and substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and olive oil mixture for a spicy twist.
Nutty Flavor: Top the dish with toasted pine nuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Creamy Version: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Lemon Basil Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, any pasta you prefer will work well with this recipe. Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are all great options.

2. How do I make this pasta dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute to make this dish gluten-free.

3. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

While fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, you can substitute dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil.

4. Can I make this pasta in advance?

Lemon Basil Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

5. Can I freeze Lemon Basil Pasta?

Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh basil may lose its flavor and texture. However, you can freeze the sauce and use it within a month.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the olive oil and garlic mixture as it sautés. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

7. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini are all great additions to this dish.

8. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it does not contain meat or animal-derived products (aside from Parmesan cheese). You can easily make it vegan by omitting the cheese and butter.

9. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?

Fresh lemon juice will provide the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if needed.

10. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and replace it with a non-dairy alternative like nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese.

Conclusion

Lemon Basil Pasta is a wonderfully light and flavorful dish that brings a burst of freshness with every bite. The combination of lemon and basil, along with the simplicity of the ingredients, makes it a perfect choice for a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with variations, this pasta is sure to please any palate. Enjoy!