Lemon Basil Pasta

Lemon Basil Pasta is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon with the aromatic essence of fresh basil, creating a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this pasta is both healthy and delicious, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

• whole wheat pasta - 150 grams
• fresh basil leaves - 30 grams
• lemon juice - 30 ml
• lemon zest - 1 teaspoon
• olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• cherry tomatoes - 150 grams, halved
• parmesan cheese - 30 grams, grated
• salt - to taste
• black pepper - to taste

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the tomatoes.
5. Pour in the lemon juice and lemon zest, and toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Stir in the fresh basil leaves, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
7. Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber from whole wheat pasta, promoting digestive health.
• Contains antioxidants from tomatoes and basil, which can help reduce inflammation.

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