Name: Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz. spaghetti, cooked al dente; 1/2 cup pasta water; Olive oil, for tossing pasta; Kosher salt, to season pasta; Fresh cracked pepper, to season pasta; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 6-8 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Zest of 2 lemons; Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons); 3 oz. jar capers, drained; 1/3 cup fresh chopped parsley; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese; Crushed red pepper flakes

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, zesty, and utterly comforting meal, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe. This dish brings together the bright brightness of fresh lemons, the bold punch of garlic, the briny pop of capers, and the fresh herbal note of parsley, all wrapped up in silky spaghetti. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that feels both fancy and effortless — perfect for weeknight dinners or when friends drop by unexpectedly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven small white bowls and dishes arranged on a white marbled surface. The top left white bowl holds a square block of yellow butter. Below it, a white bowl contains minced garlic mixed with black pepper. To the right of the butter, a clear glass bowl has golden olive oil. Below the olive oil, a white bowl is filled with finely chopped green herbs. On the bottom left, a white bowl contains small, dark green capers. To the right of the capers, a white plate holds bright yellow lemon zest. Lastly, in the bottom center, a clear glass bowl has a pale yellow liquid, likely lemon juice. The items are neatly placed in a slight arc shape photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that each play a key role: from the buttery richness and bright citrus to the aromatic herbs and flavorful capers. Each item is easy to find yet essential for creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

8 oz. spaghetti: Use good-quality pasta for the best texture, cooked al dente to hold up to the sauce beautifully.
1/2 cup pasta water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the noodles for a silky finish.
4 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich creaminess that balances the tartness of lemon.
4 tablespoons olive oil: Enhances flavor and keeps the pasta from sticking, plus a bit more for tossing.
6-8 cloves garlic, minced: The heart of the dish, delivering a fragrant and savory depth.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that complements parsley and capers beautifully.
Zest of 2 lemons: Concentrated lemon flavor for brightness without extra acidity.
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons): Provides a fresh, tangy lift that wakes up the dish.
3 oz. jar capers, drained: Their briny, salty pop adds a delightful contrast to the creamy butter and garlic.
1/3 cup fresh chopped parsley: Brings a fresh herbal note and vivid color to the pasta.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: To season perfectly at every stage.
Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish): Adds savory umami and a little richness as the finishing touch.
Crushed red pepper flakes (for garnish): Optional for those who like a slight spicy kick.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Start by boiling the spaghetti in plenty of salted water until al dente — tender but still with a little bite. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce later. Before draining, scoop out about half a cup of the starchy pasta water; this will be key for achieving a perfectly smooth sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the garlic butter sauce

In a large sauté pan over medium-low heat, melt the butter together with olive oil. Add in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir frequently for about a minute, just until the garlic releases its irresistible aroma and gently softens without browning — that’s where the flavor really shines without any bitterness.

Step 3: Add lemon, capers, and parsley

Next, stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, capers, and chopped parsley. Splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water to help meld the flavors and create a light sauce. Let this mixture cook together for another minute, allowing the bright and briny notes to blend seamlessly.

Step 4: Toss the pasta in the sauce

Add the drained pasta to your pan and toss everything together so each strand is coated evenly. Let it cook for another minute or so until heated through, adding more pasta water as needed to maintain a silky consistency. This step makes all the difference in creating that luscious, clingy sauce we all crave.

Step 5: Season and garnish

Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve straight from the pan, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Your Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe is ready to delight!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe

A white pot with two handles sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a yellow liquid base speckled with black pepper and herbs. In the liquid, three main piles rest together near the center: a mound of small dark green lentils on the top right, a heap of finely chopped bright green herbs on the top left, and a pile of finely grated light yellow zest below them. The overall look is fresh with a mix of dark, bright, and warm colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe, don’t skimp on garnishes. A hearty grating of Parmesan cheese adds savory depth, while a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes introduces warmth and a subtle kick. A few extra sprigs of fresh parsley not only brighten the plate but refresh the palate with each bite.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines as a main course but also pairs beautifully with light sides. Try a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables for a nutritious and balanced meal. A crusty baguette works wonders to mop up any leftover buttery sauce, making sure nothing goes to waste.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests or family? Serve this Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe in deep bowls topped with a twist of lemon zest curls and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for an added crunch. You can also mix in some grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty variation that still keeps the bright flavors front and center.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, place your pasta in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. The fresh parsley may dull slightly, but a quick stir and a little extra olive oil when reheating will bring back some of that fresh, lively taste.

Freezing

This Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe doesn’t freeze very well because the delicate herbs and lemon flavors can lose their brightness, and the texture of the pasta may suffer. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or within a couple of days of making it.

Reheating

When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce and keep the pasta from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the dish’s fresh flavors and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to try linguine, fettuccine, or even a short pasta like penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and enjoy the same delicious flavor profile.

Are capers necessary in this Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe?

Capers provide a unique salty tang that perfectly complements the lemon and garlic, but if you don’t have them on hand, you could substitute with green olives or omit them altogether, although the dish’s character will shift slightly.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply swap the butter for extra olive oil and leave out the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The vibrant lemon, garlic, and capers will still create a deliciously satisfying meal.

Can I add protein to this pasta?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu make excellent additions. Add them toward the end of cooking to warm through and meld flavors without overpowering the dish.

What’s the secret to keeping garlic from burning?

Cooking garlic on medium-low heat and stirring frequently helps it soften and release flavor without turning bitter or overly brown. This step is critical for the perfect Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe!

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers and Parsley Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly feels homemade yet gourmet, brightening any mealtime with its fresh, bold flavors. It comes together quickly, uses simple ingredients with huge taste, and can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion. Next time you need a meal that’s both comforting and exciting, give this recipe a try — I promise it’ll become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.