Ingredients
Spaghetti
- 1/2 lb (250g) spaghetti
Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 4 oz (120g) cherry tomatoes, quartered
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, roughly 9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
- Prepare Lemon Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Toss Pasta with Dressing: Return the drained spaghetti to the pot and pour the lemon oil dressing over it. Toss the pasta gently to coat all strands evenly with the lemon mixture.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, lemon zest, and quartered cherry tomatoes carefully, mixing gently to combine without mashing the tomatoes.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates and enjoy immediately to preserve freshness and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust lemon juice and zest according to your preferred level of tartness.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the fresh, bright flavors.
- Cherry tomatoes add a nice sweet acidity, but grape tomatoes can be substituted if unavailable.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
