Go Back
+ servings
Lemon Caper Pasta

Zesty Lemon Caper Pasta Ready in 15 Minutes

This Lemon Caper Pasta is a quick, vibrant dish that captures Mediterranean flavors in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta any good-quality shape
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil add richness and depth
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced increases aroma
  • ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional for heat
  • ¼ cup Capers, rinsed avoid capers packed in salt
  • 1 large Lemon juiced and zested
  • 2-3 tablespoons Fresh Herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil
  • ½ cup Pasta Water reserved before draining
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese substitute with nutritional yeast for vegan
  • 1 tablespoon Butter can be omitted for vegan

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 2 minutes until garlic is golden.
  3. Add lemon zest and juice, rinsed capers, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Pour in reserved pasta water and add Parmesan cheese. Stir on low heat for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. Stir in butter until melted.
  5. Plate pasta with extra herbs and Parmesan, drizzle with olive oil, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 9gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 408mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Best enjoyed fresh.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!