light pasta recipe
The Best light pasta recipe
The health benefits are pretty simple too—it’s got whole-grain pasta for a little extra fiber, and the sauce is fresh and bright, so it’s not heavy on calories but still satisfying. I like that it’s easy to customize too. If you’re watching what you eat, you can swap in a lighter sauce or add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan instead of cheese. And because it’s so simple, it’s perfect for when you want to impress without the stress of a complicated recipe. My family loves it for everyday meals, but it also works well for a light dinner party or even a simple lunch with a side salad. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a treat without any of the fuss.
Light Lemon Garlic Pasta with Fresh Herbs
A bright, zesty pasta dish that’s quick to make and packed with fresh flavors. The light tomato sauce and lemon brighten up the dish without heaviness, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large bowl, combine flour, egg, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 2 minutes until smooth. -
2
Roll the dough thinly and cut into 2-inch-wide strips. Set aside. -
3
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
4
Pour in the tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, Parmesan, parsley, and basil. Cook until slightly thickened. -
5
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente (2–3 minutes less than package time). Drain and toss with the sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Light Lemon Garlic Pasta with Fresh Herbs Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Light Lemon Garlic Pasta with Fresh Herbs
What is the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking together during cooking?
Use a large pot of well-salted water and stir frequently with a wooden spoon or pasta fork, especially in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Adding a splash of pasta water while stirring helps create a thin, slippery coating that keeps the noodles from clumping.
Can I substitute the light cream sauce for a lighter alternative?
Yes, you can replace the light cream sauce with a mix of ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat) and 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a tangy, lighter option. Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for extra depth if desired.
How do I ensure the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed in the sauce?
After sautéing the garlic and herbs in the oil, let the mixture simmer for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stirring occasionally helps release the aromatics into the sauce evenly.
What if I don’t have a food processor for the breadcrumb topping?
For a quick alternative, pulse 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs in a blender or food processor until finely ground, then mix with 1 egg and 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan before pressing into the pasta.
