Lemon Basil Spring Pasta

Name: Lemon Basil Spring Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Cooking Ideas

I absolutely love making Lemon Basil Spring Pasta, especially when spring hits and fresh ingredients are at their peak. The zesty lemon combined with aromatic basil creates a vibrant dish that feels light yet satisfying. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve at a gathering. I often pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, but it’s wonderful all on its own too. Trust me, once you try this dish, you'll be making it season after season!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-12T19:38:18.510Z

When I first created this Lemon Basil Spring Pasta, I was inspired by the abundance of fresh vegetables in my garden. I wanted something that captured the essence of spring, light and refreshing. After experimenting with different herbs, I found that basil paired wonderfully with lemon juice, creating a balance that truly elevates the pasta. It's amazing how simple ingredients can come together to create such a delightful dish!

One tip I've learned is to add the lemon zest right after cooking to preserve its bright flavor. It adds an extra layer of freshness that makes a huge difference. I often toss in some cherry tomatoes and asparagus for color and texture, which not only enhance the dish visually but also make it even tastier!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your palate
Fresh ingredients make it perfect for spring
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The star of Lemon Basil Spring Pasta is undoubtedly the fresh basil and cherry tomatoes. Fresh basil not only brings a fragrant aroma but also a sweet, peppery flavor that elevates the entire dish. When selecting basil, look for vibrant green leaves without any brown spots. Similarly, ripe cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. They should feel firm yet slightly yielding to the touch, signaling their juiciness. If cherry tomatoes are not in season, grape tomatoes or even chopped larger tomatoes can serve as suitable substitutes.

Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for achieving the right depth of flavor. It should have a fruity aroma and a slightly peppery finish; this distinction will shine through in the final dish. Always avoid heating olive oil past its smoke point, which is around 410°F (210°C), to keep its flavor intact. If desired, you can infuse the olive oil with garlic or chili flakes for enhanced flavor before sautéing the garlic.

Perfecting Your Pasta Technique

Cooking your pasta to al dente is crucial for the best texture in this dish. This means it should have a slight bite when you taste it. To achieve this, refer to the package’s cooking time, but start checking 1-2 minutes earlier. Once drained, don’t rinse the pasta; this helps the sauce adhere better. The starchy water left on the pasta will also help to emulsify any sauces, making it glossy and flavorful.

Tossing the pasta with the other ingredients off the heat is an important step. This prevents the basil from wilting too much and losing its bright flavor. Add just enough of the reserved pasta water slowly as you mix until you reach your desired sauce consistency. This is a good time to taste and adjust the seasoning; a little extra salt or lemon can really brighten everything up.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Lemon Basil Spring Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to make a delightful spring pasta dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Lemon Basil Spring Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta cooking water.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the cooked pasta, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

Mix and Serve

Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help combine. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Lemon Basil Spring Pasta!

Pro Tips

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Additionally, feel free to substitute seasonal vegetables like zucchini or peas to customize the recipe to your taste.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Lemon Basil Spring Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to a skillet over medium heat, and warm gently, stirring occasionally. This method will help maintain the pasta's texture instead of microwaving, which can make it gummy if overheated.

You can also freeze this dish if intended for longer storage. However, I suggest leaving out the fresh basil and any cheese before freezing, as they don’t freeze well. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet as described.

Personalizing Your Dish

One of the joys of this recipe is its versatility. If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs wonderfully with the pasta. Simply season and cook your protein of choice while you prepare the pasta and sauce. You can even toss in other vegetables like spinach or asparagus to amp up the nutritional value and color, just remember to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables chosen.

For a creamy spin on this recipe, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese when mixing the pasta with other ingredients. This will give it a rich texture, turning your dish into a different culinary experience while still keeping the lemon and basil flavor profile intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or farfalle.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

→ What should I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with grilled vegetables or a light salad.