Best Quick Pasta Dinner Recipes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free Option
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb Spaghetti or Linguine
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. While the water heats up, mince your garlic cloves finely and chop the fresh parsley. Grate your Parmesan cheese fresh from the block for the best melting results. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is just al dente. Just before draining, carefully scoop out at least a cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté the garlic for about 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden, but be careful not to burn it. Reduce the heat to low. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Pour in half of the reserved pasta water and the Parmesan cheese. Toss vigorously with tongs until the cheese melts and the water emulsifies with the butter to form a creamy sauce.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. If the pasta looks too dry, add a splash more of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with plenty of black pepper and a pinch of salt if needed. Divide the pasta into four bowls and garnish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a lemon wedge for a bright, professional finish. Serve immediately while hot.
Find it online: https://cooktastydaily.com/best-quick-pasta-dinner-recipes/