Lemon Pepper Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Pepper Pasta is the ideal dish for anyone who loves bright, citrusy flavors. It’s quick and easy to make, using just a handful of ingredients, yet it delivers a big punch of flavor. The combination of lemon juice, lemon zest, and cracked black pepper creates a tangy and slightly spicy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. A little garlic and Parmesan cheese add richness and depth, making this dish a perfect choice for a light meal or as a side to grilled chicken, seafood, or vegetables. It’s fresh, light, and totally irresistible.

Ingredients

• 200g pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta of your choice)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.

2. Prepare the sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Add lemon and pepper: To the pan, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, freshly cracked black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

4. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the lemon pepper sauce. Toss to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta evenly. Stir until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.

5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and flavor.

6. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this bright, citrusy pasta!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: To make this dish heartier, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a complete meal.

• Add vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.

• Make it spicy: For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: For a healthier or gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free variety.

• Add herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can be added for more depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Lemon Pepper Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti or linguine is ideal, you can use any type of pasta, including penne, fusilli, or fettuccine.

Can I make this pasta vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also substitute olive oil for a plant-based butter for extra richness.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

For a creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of heavy cream or a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut milk. You can also use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free creamy version.

Can I add more lemon to the pasta?

Absolutely! If you love a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice or zest to the sauce. You can also adjust the pepper to suit your taste.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

This pasta is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and toss it in the sauce.

How can I make this pasta spicier?

For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the garlic when sautéing. You can also add hot sauce to the pasta for an extra kick.

Can I freeze this pasta?

While pasta dishes with a lot of sauce can freeze well, this particular dish may not hold up as well after freezing, as the lemon sauce might separate upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Pasta is a quick, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simple ingredients come together in just 20 minutes to create a satisfying meal with a burst of fresh citrus and savory pepper. Whether you’re making it as a side or as the main course, this pasta is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s easy to customize, so feel free to add protein, vegetables, or extra spice to make it your own. Enjoy the bright flavors of this simple yet delicious pasta!