Lemony Spaghetti With Garlic And Pine Nuts
If you're a fan of pasta, you'll love this delicious recipe for lemony spaghetti with garlic and pine nuts. This dish is easy to make and is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend dinner party. The combination of lemon, garlic, and pine nuts creates a unique flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté until the garlic is lightly golden, about 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.
- Pour the garlic and pine nut mixture over the spaghetti and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water by the tablespoonful if needed to moisten.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Tips
If you want to add some extra flavor to this dish, try adding some cooked shrimp or chicken. You can also substitute the pine nuts with walnuts or almonds. For a vegetarian option, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
Health Benefits
This dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Pine nuts are high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, which can help support a healthy immune system.
Conclusion
Lemony spaghetti with garlic and pine nuts is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of lemon, garlic, and pine nuts creates a unique flavor that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy!
