You don’t think you have time but… did you know in just 15 minutes you can walk a mile, read a chapter of a book, or make some Pasta al Limone?! Who knew you could be so productive in such a little amount of time? We’re biased, but we think the last option is the best way to go. In just a matter of minutes, your plate can be topped with some steaming spaghetti that’s coated in an easy garlic sauce. Sprinkled with a bit of lemon zest and parmesan, tasting Pasta al Limone will prove that you really used your time wisely!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- kosher salt, to taste
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1 –In a medium pot of salted, boiling water, cook the spaghetti to al dente, according to package instructions. Note: Use less water than the recommended amount so that the pasta is more crowded.
Step 2 –When the spaghetti is nearly done, in a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Step 3 –Add the garlic to the melted butter and cook, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4 –Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 5 –Immediately add the cooked spaghetti and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the garlic-butter and increase the heat to medium-high. Use a pair of tongs to toss to coat.
Step 6 –Cook the spaghetti mixture, tossing constantly, until the sauce turns shiny and coats the pasta, about 1 minute. If the pasta becomes too tight/dry at any point, gradually add the remaining reserved pasta water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time.
Step 7 –Sprinkle the lemon zest over the spaghetti mixture, then drizzle with the lemon juice.
Step 8 –Sprinkle the parmesan over the spaghetti mixture and toss to combine.
Step 9 –Taste the spaghetti mixture and season with the salt and the pepper, as needed.
Step 10 –Serve.
