Lemon Spaghetti Recipe - A Refreshing Italian Delight

Lemon Spaghetti — a italian recipe (main course) with 8 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 17, 2026

30

Total Time (min)

6

servings

512

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Lemon Spaghetti Recipe - A Refreshing Italian Delight

Ingredients

Servings:
6
  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1 cup fresh basil (chopped) (for garnish)
  • salt to taste

Instructions

6 steps

  1. Cook the Spaghetti

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

    Reserve some pasta water before draining.
  2. Prepare the Sauce

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

    Do not let the garlic burn.
  3. Add Lemon

    Stir in the lemon zest and juice to the skillet. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.

    Adjust lemon juice based on your taste preference.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.

    The pasta should be well coated in the sauce.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

    Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until combined.

    Serve immediately for the best flavor.
  6. Garnish and Serve

    Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your Lemon Spaghetti!

    Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Sugar-Conscious, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Mediterranean, Egg-Free, Peanut-Free. Diet: Balanced

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your italian meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Garlic bread
🍽️Caesar salad
🍽️Roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Lemon Spaghetti Recipe - A Refreshing Italian Delight is a beloved dish from Italian cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 30 minutes, it's a quick and easy option for any day of the week.

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its emphasis on simple, quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each region of Italy has its own distinct culinary traditions, passed down through generations.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 8 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used for a healthier option.

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Nutrition Facts

6 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories450kcal
Total Fat18gg
Sodium300mgmg
Total Carbohydrates60gg
Dietary Fiber3gg
Total Sugars2gg
Protein15gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineItalian