Let me tell you, this lemony garlic spaghetti is an absolute game-changer for weeknight dinners! The zesty lemon and spicy kick from the red pepper flakes make it so vibrant, while the creamy Parmesan ties it all together — total flavor explosion in just one pan!
I love how this One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta brings bright flavors to the table with just a handful of ingredients. The zing of lemon juice and zest complements the savory garlic and red pepper flakes perfectly.
Using a simple broth base makes this recipe both nutritious and satisfying.
One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe Ingredients
- Spaghetti: Rich in carbohydrates, it’s great for energy.
- Olive Oil: Healthy fats, supports heart health.
- Garlic: Adds pungent flavor, has potential health benefits.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Provides brightness, rich in vitamin C.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a spicy kick to the dish.
- Vegetable/Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth and rich flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami flavor and creamy texture.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness, rich in vitamins.
One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe Ingredient Quantities
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- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 to 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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How to Make this One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe
1. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the spaghetti to the pan, along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, and 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth.
4. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally, allowing the pasta to absorb the broth as it cooks.
5. If the liquid reduces too quickly before the pasta is al dente, add the remaining broth in small amounts as needed.
6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste as the pasta cooks.
7. Once the pasta is cooked to your desired doneness and the sauce is slightly thickened, remove the pan from the heat.
8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
9. Add the chopped fresh parsley and toss lightly to combine.
10. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.
One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Large skillet or pan
2. Stove
3. Measuring spoons
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Zester or grater
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Juice squeezer or manual juicer
9. Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
10. Measuring cups
11. Serving plate or bowl
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or any long pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Is it possible to make the dish vegan? Absolutely. Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
- How can I make this dish richer in flavor? Try adding a splash of white wine before simmering the pasta, or include a pat of butter at the end for extra creaminess.
- What should I do if I don’t have fresh parsley? Dried parsley can be used instead, though it’s less vibrant. Add about half the amount of dried parsley as a substitute.
- Can I add protein to this dish? Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas pair well with lemon garlic pasta for a heartier meal.
- How do I prevent the pasta from sticking? Stir the pasta frequently, especially during the first few minutes of cooking, and ensure there is enough liquid.
One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe Substitutions and Variations
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- Spaghetti: Use fettuccine, linguine, or any long pasta you have on hand.
- Olive oil: Substitute with avocado oil or butter for a different flavor.
- Garlic: Use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon per clove) if fresh garlic is unavailable.
- Red pepper flakes: Substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar cheesy flavor.
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Pro Tips
1. Toast the Garlic: Before adding the spaghetti, ensure the garlic is just lightly golden. This step will deepen its flavor without making it bitter. Keep a close watch as garlic can quickly overcook.
2. Layered Citrus Flavor: For an extra citrus punch, add a little lemon zest right before serving. This will give the dish a fresh aroma that complements the cooked lemon juice.
3. Broth Variability: Start with 2 cups of broth and add more gradually if needed—this helps control the pasta’s texture. The type of broth used can change the flavor profile slightly, with chicken broth adding a richer taste compared to vegetable broth.
4. Cheese Quality: Use high-quality Parmesan cheese and grate it fresh if possible. Pre-grated cheese can have additives that affect melting and texture.
5. Serving Tip: To enhance the presentation and flavor, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the pasta just before serving. This adds a luxurious mouthfeel and brings out the flavors in the dish.
One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe
My favorite One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Large skillet or pan
2. Stove
3. Measuring spoons
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Zester or grater
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Juice squeezer or manual juicer
9. Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
10. Measuring cups
11. Serving plate or bowl
Ingredients:
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- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 to 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
“`
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the spaghetti to the pan, along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, and 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth.
4. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally, allowing the pasta to absorb the broth as it cooks.
5. If the liquid reduces too quickly before the pasta is al dente, add the remaining broth in small amounts as needed.
6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste as the pasta cooks.
7. Once the pasta is cooked to your desired doneness and the sauce is slightly thickened, remove the pan from the heat.
8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
9. Add the chopped fresh parsley and toss lightly to combine.
10. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.
