Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Olive Oil and Herbs

There’s something magical about simplicity done right — and this Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Olive Oil and Herbs is proof. This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish celebrates minimalism at its finest: fragrant garlic, zesty lemon, rich olive oil, and fresh herbs come together to create a dish that’s bright, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

It’s light enough for lunch yet elegant enough for dinner — the kind of recipe that feels as refreshing as a Mediterranean breeze.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms humble pantry ingredients into something extraordinary. The warmth of the garlic-infused olive oil, the tang of lemon, and the freshness of herbs like parsley and basil create a perfectly balanced flavor harmony.

It’s comfort food with sophistication — simple, quick, and bursting with sunshine in every bite.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves pasta but wants a lighter, cleaner flavor profile. It’s quick to make — ready in just 20 minutes — and doesn’t require any cream, butter, or heavy sauces.

Instead, it relies on the natural beauty of quality olive oil and lemon to coat each strand of spaghetti with freshness.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean
• Course: Main Course / Light Lunch / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• Zest of 1 large lemon
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2 tbsp)
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of spice)
• 1/4 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (to adjust sauce consistency)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook spaghetti until al dente, reserve some pasta water.
2. Sauté garlic and chili flakes in olive oil until golden.
3. Add lemon juice and zest, toss with spaghetti and herbs.
4. Adjust seasoning, add Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook gently for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden (not brown). Add red pepper flakes if using.

Step 3: Add the Lemon Components
Stir in the lemon zest and juice, letting them infuse the oil for about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained spaghetti directly into the pan and toss to coat in the lemon-garlic oil. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles.

Step 5: Finish with Herbs and Cheese
Remove from heat. Stir in chopped parsley and basil. If you’re adding Parmesan, toss it in now for a light, glossy coating. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest, parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Serve

Serve this pasta hot, twirled elegantly into shallow bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dusting of Parmesan, and a light drizzle of olive oil. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables — and a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice only — bottled versions lack brightness.
• Don’t overcook the garlic — it should be golden and fragrant, not brown or bitter.
• Add a splash of pasta water gradually until you reach a silky texture.
• For a vegan version, skip the cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast.
• Quality olive oil makes all the difference in flavor — use extra virgin for best results.

Variations

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled shrimp, pan-seared chicken, or crispy pancetta.
• Add Greens: Mix in baby spinach, arugula, or steamed broccoli.
• Make It Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili oil.
• Creamy Twist: Add a splash of heavy cream or ricotta for a creamier sauce.
• Mediterranean Style: Include cherry tomatoes, capers, or olives for a zesty upgrade.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of warm water.
• Freezer: Not ideal for freezing due to the delicate lemon and herb flavors, but if needed, freeze for up to 1 month and reheat slowly after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large sauté pan or skillet
• Microplane or fine grater (for lemon zest)
• Tongs or pasta fork for tossing

FAQ

Q1: Can I use other pasta shapes instead of spaghetti?
Yes! Linguine, angel hair, or fettuccine all work beautifully with this recipe.

Q2: What’s the best olive oil for this dish?
Use extra virgin olive oil — preferably cold-pressed and high-quality — since it’s the backbone of flavor here.

Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Q4: Can I prepare this in advance?
You can prep the garlic and lemon mixture ahead of time, but the pasta tastes best when freshly tossed.

Q5: How can I make this dish heartier?
Add roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or even a poached egg on top for extra richness.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Olive Oil and Herbs is a shining example of how simplicity can yield extraordinary flavor. Each bite bursts with the brightness of lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the richness of olive oil — a true taste of the Mediterranean coast. It’s easy, elegant, and endlessly versatile — a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether served as a light lunch, a side, or the star of your table, this pasta proves that less truly is more.