Lemon Spaghetti
I am obsessed with pretty much any pasta, but this recipe has a special place in my heart. The lemon and basil combo is just chef’s kiss. It is such a great summer dish because it is so light! Plus, you don’t have to turn on the stove and heat up the house. You don’t use any heavy creams or sauces, just bright, fresh ingredients. You won’t believe how quickly it comes together. If you make the sauce while the pasta is cooking, you’re done in literally 15 minutes. This recipe can be made with any type of pasta, not just spaghetti. The light, lemon flavor is perfect on penne pasta, rotini pasta, or farfalle pasta. The farfalle (little bows) is especially good because it gives more surface for the sauce to stick. Every bite is full of lemon flavor.
Optional Toppings
As is, this is a great vegetarian main dish, but adding a little meat will make it a heartier meal. Chicken and shrimp are my first two choices of protein to add to pasta. If time is an issue, stir fry some shrimp or diced chicken and combine with the pasta. For a fancier dinner, top with slices of grilled chicken or some Spicy Grilled Shrimp. If you want to keep it vegetarian, there are several vegetables that go well with lemon spaghetti. Throw in some steamed broccoli or asparagus for some extra nutrition and texture. Sautéed mushrooms and/or sliced zucchini are also delicious additions. Have you tried a vegetable that you love in this pasta? Leave a comment below and we’ll add it to the list!
The Magic Ingredient
All the ingredients in this dish are delicious and important. However, one ingredient takes this recipe to the next level – pasta water. Now, I know you’re thinking, “You mean that stuff I pour down the drain?” YEP. You need to start saving a little bit of that magic stuff before you drain the pasta. Have you ever had a sauce that just won’t stick to your noodles? Pasta water is the answer! It is salty and starchy and it helps the sauce thicken and cling to the noodles. I usually save about a cup of pasta water and then once I combine the sauce and noodles, I just add a little pasta water at a time until I reach the desired consistency. Try it, you will believe it when you see it.
What Goes Well with This Dish?
Lemon Spaghetti works great as a stand alone dish. However, if you want to use it as a side dish, or just round out the meal, check out these ideas!
Breadtwists (Pizza Factory Copycat)Nuts About Berries Salad Lemon Pepper ChickenBaked Salmon with LemonLemon Garlic Brussel Sprouts
How to Make Lemon Spaghetti
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