Linguine with Lemon-Dill Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Bright lemon and dill cut through rich pasta in this effortless weeknight meal, featuring fresh herbs and a silky sauce. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 27 minutes blends linguine, olive oil, minced garlic into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot, add 1 tsp salt, then add 12 oz linguine and cook for 8 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  2. Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add 4 minced garlic cloves, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Step 3: Add 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 3 tbsp chopped dill to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Step 4: Add drained linguine to the skillet, tossing vigorously for 1 minute until evenly coated, then stir in 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and glossy.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Linguine with Lemon-Dill Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Linguine with Lemon-Dill Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Linguine with Lemon-Dill Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Linguine with Lemon-Dill Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Linguine with Lemon-Dill Sauce?

Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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