Capellini with Lemon and Garlic

Serves 8 as a side dish

This is a quick, easy, healthy and delicious Italian pasta. I usually serve it as a side dish, but it also makes a light main dish with a tossed salad for a vegetarian meal. The recipe can easily be made in any amount needed. Try it with multigrain or whole wheat pasta for a nutritional boost and extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound capellini or other thin spaghetti
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 6 large garlic cloves, minced, more or less to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cook the pasta according to package directions for al dente. Drain, reserving some of the water. Add the oil and garlic to pot and sauté about 1 minute. Return the pasta to the pot and toss. Add salt, pepper, lemon juice, zest, parsley and enough reserved water to moisten. Toss again until well combined. Serve, passing the cheese separately.

Notes: If necessary, this pasta can be made up to an hour ahead. Keep at room temperature and reheat in the microwave.