Cilantro Lemon Pasta

Cilantro Lemon Pasta is a vibrant and refreshing vegan dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon with the aromatic essence of cilantro, creating a unique Moroccan-inspired meal. Perfect for a quick dinner, this pasta is both light and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Pasta (spaghetti or linguine) - 160 grams
• Fresh cilantro - 30 grams, chopped
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon zest - 1 teaspoon
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
• Cherry tomatoes - 150 grams, halved
• Pine nuts - 30 grams, toasted

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Once the pasta is done, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic.
5. Add the chopped cilantro, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with toasted pine nuts and additional cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from cilantro, which may help reduce inflammation.
• High in fiber from pasta and cherry tomatoes, promoting digestive health.

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