Go Back
–+ servings
Lemon Caper Pasta

Zesty Lemon Caper Pasta Ready in 15 Minutes for a Quick Hit

This Lemon Caper Pasta is a vibrant, vegetarian-friendly dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean with zesty lemon and savory garlic.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Use any short or long pasta, like spaghetti or fusilli.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Adds depth and richness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a hint of heat.
  • 1/4 cup Capers in Brine Avoid capers packed in salt.
  • 1 large Lemon Juice and zest.
  • 2-3 tablespoons Fresh Herbs Like parsley or thyme.
  • 1/2 cup Pasta Water Reserved for emulsifying the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Plus more for serving.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter For richness; omit for vegan.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Cooking Spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Caper Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
  3. Stir in lemon zest and juice, capers, and fresh herbs. Cook for another minute, then add reserved pasta water and Parmesan, stirring until smooth.
  4. Toss the drained pasta with the sauce in the skillet, warming through for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and additional Parmesan, drizzling olive oil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For a refreshing dessert, try serving with Italian Grandmas Lemon Custard Cake.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!