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Lemon Caper Pasta

Lemon Caper Pasta: Bright & Easy Dinner in 20 Minutes

Lemon Caper Pasta is a quick and vibrant dish featuring creamy lemon butter sauce with capers, perfect for a refreshing dinner in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Spaghetti A classic, but feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape!
  • Kosher Salt This is for boiling the pasta; it enhances flavor during cooking.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Divided; adds creaminess.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Richness that elevates the overall flavor.
  • 3-4 cloves Garlic, minced For an aromatic punch; garlic powder works in a pinch!
  • 1/4 cup White Wine or Vegetable Broth Use broth for a non-alcoholic flavor boost.
For the Flavor
  • 1 Lemon, zested and juiced Provides bright acidity; lime can be a substitute.
  • 1.5 ounces Capers, drained but not rinsed Gives that signature briny taste.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped Adds a fresh herb garnish.
  • Black Pepper Simply to taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30-60 seconds, stirring until fragrant.
  3. Pour in white wine or vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan. Allow to simmer for about 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
  4. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, lemon zest and juice, drained capers, and chopped parsley to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for about a minute.
  5. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing together gently. Add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
  6. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For freezing, portion in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

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