Tangy Lemon Basil Pasta Delight

A fresh and light dish combining tender spaghetti with blistered cherry tomatoes, bright lemon juice, and aromatic fresh basil.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by cooking the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. The reserved water will help in making the sauce creamy, without using cream.
2. 2.
   While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and sauté until they start to blister and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes. This process intensifies their sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and carefully add the lemon juice to the pan. Stir gently to combine with the tomatoes. If the mixture looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out into a light sauce. This helps to coat the pasta evenly and adds a glossy finish.
4. 4.
   Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the sauce. Turn off the heat, and then gently fold in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will slightly wilt the basil, releasing its aromatic oils.
5. 5.
   Serve the pasta immediately, ensuring each serving gets a good mix of tomatoes and basil. If the pasta seems a bit dry upon serving, add a touch more olive oil or pasta water to loosen it up. Enjoy a fresh and zesty dish that speaks of summer's simplicity and brightness.