Ingredients:

 

8 oz (225g) whole wheat spaghetti or your favorite pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped

Salt and black pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

 Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a cup of pasta cooking water.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

 In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

 

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic.

Add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Toss to combine and coat the pasta evenly.

If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

Step 4: Add Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

 Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and torn basil leaves.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the tomatoes are warmed through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

 Transfer the lemon garlic pasta to serving plates.

Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Serve hot and enjoy your light and refreshing pasta dish.

This quick and healthy lemon garlic pasta is a light and flavorful option that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It's bursting with the fresh, zesty flavors of lemon and basil, making it a delightful and satisfying meal. Enjoy!