Al Dente Lemon Garlic Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

A simple yet vibrant pasta dish where perfectly cooked spaghetti meets bright lemon and sweet cherry tomatoes, finished with a touch of fresh parsley.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 15 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves, minced garlic
• 1 cup, halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Step 3: Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in 1 tsp lemon zest and 1 tsp salt, then add the drained spaghetti and 2 tbsp reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously for 2 minutes until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra lemon zest.