Giada's Original Lemon Spaghetti

Giada’s Lemon Spaghetti is the ultimate recipe for anyone craving a fresh, flavorful, and creamy pasta dish. With just a few simple ingredients, this easy lemon spaghetti brings together zesty lemon juice, rich Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and aromatic fresh basil for a delightful and light Italian-inspired meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is quick to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes. Ideal for those who love lemon pasta with a creamy sauce, this recipe will leave you craving more!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

2/3 cup olive oil (for a more intense Southern Italian flavor, try lemon-infused olive oil!)
2/3 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from approximately 2 lemons)
3/4 teaspoon salt (plus additional to taste)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
1 pound dried spaghetti (try spaghetti chittara for an authentic touch)
1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)

Instructions:

Make the Lemon Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well blended. Set the sauce aside. You can prepare this ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 8 hours, but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving.
Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Combine Pasta with Sauce: Using tongs or a pasta spider, transfer the cooked pasta directly into the bowl of lemon sauce. Gradually add about 1 cup of pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the pasta perfectly.
Add Fresh Herbs and Zest: Stir in the chopped basil and lemon zest for a burst of freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Serve: Divide the lemon spaghetti into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy the creamy, zesty pasta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Giada’s Lemon Spaghetti is an irresistible combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. With the freshness of lemon, the richness of Parmigiano Reggiano, and the vibrant kick of basil, this pasta dish is a perfect balance of refreshing and indulgent. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a light yet flavorful dish to serve at a gathering. The simplicity of ingredients and the lightness of the sauce makes it a favorite among pasta lovers.

Tips

Lemon Oil: For an even more intense lemon flavor, use lemon-infused olive oil instead of regular olive oil. It’ll elevate the dish with an authentic Southern Italian twist.
Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. The starchy water helps the sauce emulsify and ensures a silky texture.
Room Temperature Sauce: If you prepare the sauce ahead of time, remember to bring it to room temperature before tossing with the pasta for a smoother sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free option without sacrificing the flavor.
Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a sprinkle of crispy pancetta to the pasta.
Vegan Version: Swap out Parmigiano Reggiano for vegan cheese or nutritional yeast, and use olive oil in place of butter to make this dish vegan-friendly.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the lemon sauce ahead of time (up to 8 hours). Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before combining it with the pasta.
How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of pasta water to bring back the creaminess.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use linguine, fettuccine, or any pasta shape you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemon Spaghetti as a light main dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.

This Giada’s Lemon Spaghetti recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. The creamy texture, fresh lemon zing, and herby basil make it the perfect dish for any occasion!