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Garlic & Herb Linguine

Garlic & Herb Linguine
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Garlic & Herb Linguine is a fast, fresh, and flavorful pasta dish combining al dente linguine with fragrant garlic, bright fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon juice. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Light, healthy, and versatile, this recipe features a delicate balance of aromatic ingredients without heavy sauces, offering restaurant-quality flavor with easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz quality dried linguine pasta

Flavor Base

  • 3–4 fresh garlic cloves, minced finely
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mixed herbs (parsley, basil, thyme), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Seasoning & Optional Ingredients

  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving one cup of pasta water for later use.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to turn golden, taking care not to burn it.
  3. Add the Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in the fresh chopped herbs and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavors. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the garlic and herb mixture. Pour in the lemon juice and a splash of reserved pasta water if the mixture feels dry. Toss well to evenly coat the pasta.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top if desired. Toss everything together and transfer to plates or bowls. Garnish with extra fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Cook garlic on medium-low heat to avoid bitterness and develop a sweet aroma.
  • Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the linguine.
  • Fresh herbs deliver the brightest flavor and most appealing color compared to dried.
  • Cook linguine al dente to maintain texture and prevent mushiness when combined with sauce.
  • A splash of lemon juice brightens and balances the dish without overpowering it.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic linguine, herb pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, Italian pasta, lemon garlic pasta, simple linguine

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/garlic-herb-linguine/