Olive Oil and Lemon Pasta

Name: Olive Oil and Lemon Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 400g spaghetti or linguine; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 2 lemons; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making Olive Oil and Lemon Pasta because it’s quick, simple, and bursting with flavor. The combination of zesty lemon and rich olive oil creates a deliciously bright sauce that perfectly coats each strand of pasta. Whether I’m cooking for myself or entertaining friends, this dish always impresses with its fresh ingredients and delightful taste. Plus, it comes together in less than 20 minutes, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends alike.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T04:13:28.881Z

When I first tasted Olive Oil and Lemon Pasta, I was immediately taken by how uncomplicated yet flavorful it was. I wanted to recreate that experience at home, and after a few tries, I found that balancing the right amount of lemon juice and olive oil really makes this dish shine. Freshly grated Parmesan on top adds an extra layer of richness that I can't resist.

This recipe is perfect for using up leftover pasta and taking advantage of whatever fresh herbs you have on hand. I've played around with adding arugula for a peppery kick or cherry tomatoes for sweetness, and each variation has been a hit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor from fresh lemon
Luxurious feel from quality olive oil
Ready in just 20 minutes for a quick meal

Ingredients

For the Pasta

400g spaghetti or linguine
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 2 lemons
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Mix these key ingredients together to create a simple yet utterly delicious dish.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, then season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Stir in chopped parsley and top with grated Parmesan if using. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your fresh and vibrant pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For added depth, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Using a good quality olive oil makes all the difference in flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, including gluten-free options.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

→ Can I prepare this pasta in advance?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and add it to freshly cooked pasta when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Olive Oil and Lemon Pasta?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.