Creamy Lemon Basil Pasta with Zucchini and Parmesan
Lemon Basil Pasta is a light and fragrant pasta dish made with fresh lemon juice, basil, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package directions until tender with slight firmness.
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Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water and drain pasta.
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Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
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Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest.
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Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently.
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Add a few spoonfuls of reserved pasta water if needed.
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Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
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Fold in fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper.
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Serve immediately.
Notes
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein.
A pinch of red pepper flakes can add mild warmth.