Lemon Basil Pasta

Name: Lemon Basil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 tbsp butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving; 10 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta

kate

Update : April 7, 2026

Delicious Lemon Basil Pasta garnished with fresh basil and lemon zest

why make this recipe

Lemon Basil Pasta is bright, fast, and low fuss. It uses simple ingredients you may already have. You can make it on a weeknight or for guests. The flavors are fresh and mild, so many people like it.

introduction

This dish mixes lemon, butter, garlic, and fresh basil for a light sauce that clings to pasta. It cooks quickly and feels fresh. If you like cold pasta salads with fresh veggies, try a similar fresh idea like best cucumber pasta salad for a side or lunch. The recipe below is easy to follow.

how to make Lemon Basil Pasta

Bring a pot of salty water to a boil and cook the pasta until it is al dente.
Save 1 cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook about 20 seconds until it smells good but does not brown.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and some of the reserved pasta water. Stir to mix and warm the sauce.
Add the pasta, sliced basil, and grated Parmesan. Toss well so the sauce coats the pasta. Add more pasta water if the sauce seems dry.
Taste and add salt and black pepper as you like. Remove from heat and serve with extra Parmesan.

Ingredients :

6 tbsp butter
4 garlic cloves (minced)
½ cup lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
¼ cup basil fresh (sliced)
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
10 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta

Directions :

Bring a pot of salty water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the box.
Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking liquid.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the garlic and cook for 20 seconds.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest and pasta water and stir to combine.
Add the pasta, basil and grated Parmesan cheese and toss to combine.
Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Remove from the heat.
Serve with extra Parmesan.

how to serve Lemon Basil Pasta

Serve the pasta hot. Add extra grated Parmesan and a little more fresh basil on top. A green salad or roasted vegetables make a good side. For a simple meal, serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

how to store Lemon Basil Pasta

Let the pasta cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze; the texture and sauce may change.

tips to make Lemon Basil Pasta

Use fresh lemon juice and fresh basil for the best flavor.
Do not overcook the pasta; al dente holds the sauce better.
Save some pasta water — it helps make a smooth, silky sauce.
Add salt little by little and taste as you go.
For a bright dessert after this citrus meal, consider baking best-ever lemon gooey butter cookies to keep the lemon theme going.

variation (if any)

Add vegetables: peas, asparagus, or spinach work well in the last minute of cooking.
Add protein: cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans make it a fuller meal.
Make it creamier: stir in 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream or a little more Parmesan for a richer sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I use another pasta instead of spaghetti?
A: Yes. Use your favorite pasta shape. Short shapes like penne or fusilli work well.

Q: Can I make this dairy free?
A: Yes. Use a dairy-free butter and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Q: How can I keep the sauce from getting too thin?
A: Use less pasta water and add the water slowly until you reach the texture you want. Stir in more Parmesan to thicken if needed.

Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: You can chop garlic and basil and grate the cheese ahead. Cook the pasta and sauce just before serving for the best texture.

Q: Is this recipe kid friendly?
A: Yes. The flavors are mild and fresh, and many kids like lemon and cheese with pasta.