Zesty Lemon Linguine with Olive Oil and Tomatoes
Delight in the fresh, vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Linguine with Olive Oil and Tomatoes. This quick and refreshing pasta dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight meal or a satisfying side dish for gatherings. The vibrant mixture of fresh lemon zest and juice, complemented by extra virgin olive oil, sautéed garlic, kalamata olives, and juicy cherry tomatoes, creates a symphony of flavors that will elevate your dining experience. Finished with fragrant basil and a sprinkle of parmesan, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with nutrition and taste, sure to please everyone at your table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh lemon zest
2 teaspoons (grated)
Lemon juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
Extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup (unmeasured)
Garlic cloves
2 large (minced)
Kalamata olives
1/2 cup (sliced (optional))
Cherry tomatoes
1 pint (halved)
Fresh basil
3 tablespoons (julienned)
Salt
to taste (unmeasured)
Freshly ground black pepper
to taste (unmeasured)
Fresh linguine
1 lb (unmeasured)
Grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (optional)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, kalamata olives (if using), and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir to mix well and set aside to marinate.
2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 2-4 minutes.
3
Before draining the pasta, reserve 1/4 cup (60 mL) of the pasta cooking water. Drain the linguine and immediately toss it with the lemon-olive oil mixture in the mixing bowl.
4
Add the reserved pasta water gradually until the desired sauce consistency is achieved, tossing to combine thoroughly.
5
Gently fold in the julienned basil and grated parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6
Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves for an extra touch.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lemon Linguine with Olive Oil and Tomatoes?
It is a quick and refreshing pasta dish featuring fresh lemon, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, kalamata olives, and cherry tomatoes.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat or animal by-products beyond optional cheese.
What type of pasta is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of fresh linguine.
How much lemon zest should I use?
You should use 2 teaspoons of grated fresh lemon zest.
How much lemon juice is required?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
What kind of olive oil is best for this dish?
Extra virgin olive oil is used to create the base of the sauce.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
How many garlic cloves are in the recipe?
You will need 2 large garlic cloves, minced.
Are the Kalamata olives required?
No, the 1/2 cup of sliced Kalamata olives is optional.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe specifically uses 1 pint of halved cherry tomatoes.
How much fresh basil is needed?
You need 3 tablespoons of fresh julienned basil.
Is parmesan cheese included in the recipe?
Yes, 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese is listed as an optional ingredient.
How do I cook the fresh linguine?
Cook it in a large pot of salted boiling water for 2-4 minutes until al dente.
Should I save any pasta water?
Yes, reserve 1/4 cup (60 mL) of the pasta cooking water before draining.
When do I add the pasta water to the sauce?
Add it gradually after tossing the pasta with the lemon-olive oil mixture until you reach your desired consistency.
How do I prepare the sauce base?
Combine lemon zest, juice, olive oil, garlic, olives, and tomatoes in a bowl to marinate while the pasta cooks.
How should I season the dish?
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste after combining the ingredients.
What is the final step before serving?
Gently fold in the julienned basil and grated parmesan cheese.
Can this dish be served as a side?
Yes, it works well as both a main weeknight meal or a refreshing side dish for gatherings.
Is the dish served hot or cold?
The recipe suggests serving the dish hot.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients total in this recipe.
What is the preparation for the basil?
The basil should be julienned (cut into thin strips).
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The garlic should be finely minced.
What is the origin style of this recipe?
This is an Italian-style pasta dish.
How do I garnish the final dish?
Garnish with additional parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves.
Can I use dried pasta instead of fresh?
While fresh linguine is specified, you can use dried; just adjust the cooking time according to the package.
How much tomato is used?
The recipe calls for one pint of cherry tomatoes.
What flavor profile does this dish have?
It has a zesty, fresh, and vibrant flavor profile dominated by lemon and basil.
Is there any preparation for the lemon zest?
The lemon zest should be grated fresh.