Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta dinner into a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance! This Herby Lemon Jalapeno Pasta is not just another recipe - it's a quick, vibrant culinary adventure that brings together the brightness of fresh herbs, the tangy kick of lemon, and a subtle jalapeno heat that will leave you craving more. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that looks gourmet but is incredibly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped jalapeno, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Transfer the pasta directly into the skillet with garlic and jalapeno.
- Toss the pasta in the olive oil mixture, ensuring each strand is well coated. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce.
- Remove skillet from heat and add fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Gently toss to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The dish should have a bright, zesty flavor with a subtle heat from the jalapeno.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired. Best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use a pasta shape that can hold sauce well, like fusilli, penne, or linguine.
- Jalapeno Heat Control: Remove the seeds for a milder flavor, or keep them in for extra spice. Always wear gloves when handling hot peppers.
- Fresh Herb Magic: Use a mix of herbs like basil and parsley for maximum flavor complexity.
- Pasta Water is Your Friend: Reserve some pasta water to help create a silky, clingy sauce that coats every strand.
- Timing is Key: Add herbs and lemon juice at the end to preserve their bright, fresh flavors.
- Serve Immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed hot and fresh, right after cooking.
- Optional Upgrades: Add grated Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, or grilled chicken for extra protein and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
