Lemon Basil Pickle Pasta (Printable)

Tangy lemon and basil pasta with dill pickles offers fresh, lively flavors for a simple, vegetarian weeknight dish.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
02 - Salt, for boiling water

→ Sauce & Flavorings

03 - 3 tbsp olive oil
04 - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
05 - 1 lemon, zested and juiced
06 - 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely diced
07 - 2 tbsp pickle brine
08 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Herbs & Finish

10 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
11 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
03 - Add finely diced pickles and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, pickle brine, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, allowing flavors to combine.
05 - Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth sauce.
06 - Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil and grated Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
07 - Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare with just 25 minutes from start to finish
  • Packed with bright flavors and a refreshing tang
  • Uses simple ingredients often tucked in your fridge or pantry
  • Delivers a unique combination that even pasta skeptics find irresistible
02 -
  • Rich source of vegetarian protein thanks to the pasta and cheese
  • Naturally boosts mood with invigorating citrus and herbs
  • Totally customizable for various diets and preferences
  • Makes amazing leftovers eaten cold or at room temperature
03 -
  • Use only fresh lemon zest since the oils add unmatched flavor and aroma
  • Do not rinse your pasta after boiling or you will lose the starchy coating that helps the sauce cling
  • Taste as you go and adjust the amount of pickle brine if you like a bigger punch of acidity
  • Keep all prep ready before starting the sauce so nothing scorches or overcooks

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