This Fragrant Herbs and Garlic Lemon Spaghetti recipe is a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the comforting warmth of spaghetti. The addition of garlic adds a rich and aromatic flavor that complements the herbs and lemon perfectly.
Fragrant Herbs and Garlic Lemon Spaghetti full Recipe
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti* (always use best quality)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced*
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced*
– 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil*
– 1 cup (20g) chopped fresh parsley*
– 1 cup (20g) chopped fresh basil*
– Salt and pepper, to taste*
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese*
– 1/4 cup ( 30g) chopped fresh mint (optional)*
Instructions:
*Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti*
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
*Step 2: Prepare the Herb and Lemon Sauce*
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the chopped parsley, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until the herbs are slightly wilted.
*Step 3: Combine the Spaghetti and Herb Sauce*
1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the herb sauce.
2. Toss the spaghetti in the sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
3. Cook, stirring constantly, for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the spaghetti is well coated in the sauce.
*Step 4: Serve and Garnish*
1. Divide the spaghetti among individual plates.
2. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each serving.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh mint, if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Here are some serving ideas for Fragrant Herbs and Garlic Lemon Spaghetti:
Main Course Ideas
1. *Protein Pairing*: Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a well-rounded meal.
2. *Veggie Delight*: Pair with roasted or sautéed vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini.
3. *Meatball Madness*: Serve with homemade meatballs for a hearty Italian-inspired meal.
Appetizer or Side Dish Ideas
1. *Bruschetta Combo*: Serve with toasted bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
2. *Caprese Salad*: Pair with a simple Caprese salad (fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil) for a light and refreshing side dish.
3. *Garlic Bread*: Offer garlic bread on the side for a classic Italian-American combination.
Special Occasion Ideas
1. *Date Night*: Serve with a side of steamed mussels or clams for a romantic dinner.
2. *Holiday Feast*: Offer as part of a larger Italian-themed feast, complete with other pasta dishes, meats, and desserts.
3. *Outdoor Gathering*: Serve at an outdoor gathering or potluck, paired with other seasonal sides and desserts.
Additional Tips
1. *Garnish with Fresh Herbs*: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, on top of the spaghetti for added flavor and visual appeal.
2. *Lemon Wedges on the Side*: Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze extra lemon juice over their spaghetti.
3. *Parmesan Cheese*: Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side, allowing guests to add extra cheese to their liking.
Here are some Fragrant Herbs and Garlic Lemon Spaghetti variations:
1. *Spicy Shrimp*
– Add cooked shrimp tossed with red pepper flakes
– Top with diced jalapeños or red peppers
2. *Roasted Vegetable*
– Toss with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes
– Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch
3. *Mushroom Creamy*
– Sautéed mushrooms with garlic and onions
– Add a splash of heavy cream for a rich sauce
4. *Grilled Chicken*
– Top with sliced grilled chicken
– Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley
5. *Pesto*
– Mix in homemade or store-bought pesto
– Top with toasted pine nuts and parmesan cheese
6. *Lemon-Garlic Shrimp*
– Marinate shrimp in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil
– Grill or sauté the shrimp and serve on top
7. *Spinach and Feta*
– Wilted spinach with garlic and lemon
– Crumbling feta cheese on top
8. *Sun-dried Tomato*
– Mix in sun-dried tomatoes with garlic and herbs
– Top with toasted pine nuts and parmesan cheese
9. *Prosciutto and Pea*
– Toss with cooked prosciutto and peas
– Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese
10. *Vegan Variation*
– Replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast
– Add roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and red peppers
This Fragrant Herbs and Garlic Lemon Spaghetti recipe is a delicious and refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes. With its vibrant flavors and aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for a light and satisfying meal any time of the year.
