Easy Lemon Pasta

From

• https://www.themediterraneandish.com/lemon-pasta/

Notes

• Cream-free — the starch in the reserved pasta water emulsifies with the olive oil and lemon to make a silky sauce
• Reserve the pasta water before draining; add more at the end if the pasta looks dry
• Start the sauce when the pasta is about 5 minutes from done so they finish together

Ingredients

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then salt it well with kosher salt.
2. Add 12 ounces spaghetti and cook per package instructions to al dente, about 8 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water before draining.
3. When the pasta is nearly done (about 5 minutes in), heat 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add 6 large garlic cloves and 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Whisk in Juice of 1 lemon and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water.
6. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss over medium heat until well-coated.
7. Remove from heat and add the following:
   • 1/2 cup fresh parsley
   • Zest of 2 lemons
   • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8. Season with salt and black pepper. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water or olive oil if needed. Serve immediately.