Ingredients

The following ingredients have 4 Servings
  • 12 oz dried spaghetti ((or use linguine, and fettuccine))
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • zest for one extra large lemon ((jumbo lemon), about 1 tablespoon)
  • 3 tablespoons freshly minced parsley leaves
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 6 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese ((and more for serving))
  • a pinch red pepper flakes ((optional) )
  • salt and black pepper ((to taste))

Instruction

  • In a large pot, bring water to a boil, stir in the salt (see notes), then cook the pasta according to the product packaging. Transfer the cooked pasta to a large bowl then stir in the lemon juice. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water to make the sauce.
  • In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add red pepper chili flakes (if you use them), parsley, lemon zest, and garlic. Cook just until fragrant. Stir in the pasta water and allow the sauce to simmer.
  • Add parmesan cheese and let it melt. Turn the heat to low then add cooked pasta. Stir until everything is combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper. Remove from the heat.
  • Serve with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if needed.