Retro Hotel Spaghetti with Fresh Herb Sauce
A creamy, herb-infused spaghetti dish with a tangy hint of lemon, channeling the retro elegance of Fresh Hotel. This italian-inspired pasta (mediterranean) ready in about 35 minutes blends spaghetti, chopped fresh basil, chopped fresh parsley 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 420 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.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1/2 cup, chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh parsley
- 3 cloves, minced garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1, zested and juiced lemon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil and 1/4 cup chopped parsley. Cook for 1 minute until herbs are wilted and fragrant.
- Step 4: Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and the juice of 1 lemon. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Step 5: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss with the sauce, incorporating 1/2 cup reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth, saucy consistency. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Retro Hotel Spaghetti with Fresh Herb Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Retro Hotel Spaghetti with Fresh Herb 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 Retro Hotel Spaghetti with Fresh Herb 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 Retro Hotel Spaghetti with Fresh Herb 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 Retro Hotel Spaghetti with Fresh Herb 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.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Made this for my family and everyone asked for the recipe.
- ★★★★☆
Enjoyable meal. Instructions could be a touch more detailed on the timing.
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
