Lemon-Infused Pasta with Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes

A bright, simple pasta dish with zesty lemon and sweet cherry tomatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 15 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves, minced garlic
• 12 oz, halved cherry tomatoes
• 1, zest and juice lemon
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil
• 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 8 oz spaghetti and cook for 8 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat 3 tbsp 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 12 oz halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 4 minutes until they begin to soften and release juice, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 tbsp lemon zest and 2 tbsp lemon juice, then toss in the drained spaghetti and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water. Cook for 1 minute, tossing constantly until the sauce coats the pasta.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil. Season with 1 tsp salt and additional lemon juice if desired.