Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

This Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that celebrates fresh flavors and simple ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe combines the aromatic essence of basil, zesty lemon, and rich butter to create a tantalizing pasta experience. With just seven ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of your time, you’ll be able to impress your guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon and garlic enhances the freshness of the basil, creating a vibrant taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish; it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or vegetables.
• Minimal Ingredients: With only seven ingredients, it’s accessible for every home cook without sacrificing flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy Parmesan and crunchy pine nuts make this dish appealing to both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Large pot
• Colander
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Excellent for even heat distribution; perfect for browning garlic and lemon slices while infusing their flavors.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
• Colander: Helps efficiently drain the cooked pasta without losing any pieces.
• Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that ensures precise slicing of garlic and lemon.

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Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this delicious Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

For the Sauce

• 6 tablespoons salted butter (divided)
• 5 cloves garlic (fresh, minced)
• 1/2 lemon (preferably Meyer lemon, thinly sliced)

For the Pasta

• 8 oz pasta (I used farfalle or bow-tie pasta)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 oz fresh basil (and add more to taste (up to 4 oz))
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
• Salt and pepper (to taste; use black cracked pepper)

How to Make Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Mixture

1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of butter along with thinly sliced lemon and minced garlic.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the lemon slices brown slightly and release their juices.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add your chosen pasta and cook al dente according to package instructions.
3. Drain the cooked pasta using a colander.

Step 3: Combine Pasta with Sauce

1. Add the hot, drained pasta directly into the cast-iron skillet with the lemon garlic mixture.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

1. Add an additional 2 tablespoons of butter along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Stir over low-medium heat for approximately two minutes until cheese is melted evenly throughout.

Step 5: Incorporate Fresh Basil

1. Mix half of the freshly chopped basil into the hot pasta mixture thoroughly.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

1. When ready to serve, top with remaining chopped basil, toasted pine nuts, and cracked black pepper as desired.

This Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor that will surely delight your palate! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Serving Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Extra Basil

• Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds vibrant color and enhances the herbaceous flavor.

Pair with Grated Parmesan

• Offering freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side allows guests to add more cheesy goodness to their pasta.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the pasta’s flavors and adds freshness to the meal.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread for dipping into the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce, adding a satisfying crunch.

Add Lemon Wedges

• Placing lemon wedges on the plate gives everyone an option for an extra citrus twist that brightens up the dish.

How to Perfect Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Perfecting your Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce can make all the difference in flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil, garlic, and lemons create vibrant flavors that dried or bottled versions simply can’t match.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Follow package instructions carefully for cooking pasta. Al dente pasta holds sauce better and offers a pleasant chewiness.

• Toast Pine Nuts Carefully: Lightly toasting pine nuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor; keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. A pinch of salt can elevate all flavors.

• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve right after preparation for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Complementing your Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce with the right side dishes can round out your meal nicely. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta.

2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds a light contrast.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color, flavor, and nutrients, balancing the richness of the pasta.

4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a bright green touch while offering a crisp texture alongside the pasta.

5. Citrus Quinoa Salad: A zesty quinoa salad can provide protein and fiber while enhancing the lemony notes in your main dish.

6. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This hearty salad made of chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs pairs well without overshadowing the pasta’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions and taste for doneness.
• Skipping the garlic browning: Not browning the garlic properly can result in a bland flavor. Ensure you sauté it until just golden for depth of flavor.
• Using old basil: Fresh basil is key for vibrant taste. Always check for freshness; wilted or brown leaves will ruin your dish.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season with salt and pepper can make your pasta bland. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Ignoring the butter melting process: Adding all butter at once can lead to uneven melting. Incorporate it gradually to ensure a smooth sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered in foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan and heat on low, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, replace butter with plant-based alternatives and omit Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

Can I add protein to this Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or turkey make great additions for extra protein.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Dried basil can be used as a substitute, but fresh basil gives the best flavor. Use about one-third of the amount when substituting dried herbs.

Final Thoughts

This Basil Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is not only quick and easy but also versatile and delicious. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week!