Are you craving that fresh, vibrant pasta dish you love from Noodles & Company? Imagine the bright lemon zest, the perfectly cooked pasta, and the burst of fresh herbs. Well, you don't have to imagine it any longer! This recipe brings the deliciousness of Noodles & Company's Pasta Fresca right to your kitchen. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal. This recipe is a celebration of homemade cooking, showcasing how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Fresh Flavors
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Adjust the quantities as needed for larger groups.
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Culinary Magic
This recipe is designed for quick dinner ideas, requiring minimal time and effort. Let's get cooking!
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Stir in the parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together until well combined.
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Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for Pasta Perfection:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture and flavor.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs make all the difference in this recipe. If you can't find fresh, dried herbs will work in a pinch, but use about 1/3 of the amount called for.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is crucial. Taste the pasta as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference.
Variations: Explore Your Culinary Creativity
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be delicious additions to this recipe.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the optional protein additions and add roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is an estimate and can vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 10-15 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
This Pasta Fresca recipe is a testament to delicious dishes that are both easy and healthy. It's a great example of how simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention, can create a truly memorable meal. Enjoy!