Description

Craving a fresh, flavorful meal that comes together in just 15 minutes? This 15-Minute, One-Pot Pasta Limone is your perfect solution! Featuring bright lemon zest and juice, aromatic leeks and garlic, and creamy Parmesan, this dish delivers vibrant Italian flavors with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this 15-Minute, One-Pot Pasta Limone. Each ingredient adds to the zesty, creamy, and savory magic.

Spaghetti, Linguine, or Bucatini (12 oz): Forms the hearty pasta base (use low-carb pasta for keto).
Leeks (2, thinly sliced): Add mild, sweet onion flavor.
Garlic Cloves (2, thinly sliced): Infuse aromatic depth.
Lemon (1, zest and juice): Provides bright, tangy flavor; extra zest for garnish.
Basil (3 sprigs, plus more for garnish): Adds fresh, herbaceous notes.
Kosher Salt (1 tsp): Seasons the dish to perfection.
Black Pepper (¾ tsp, freshly ground, plus more for serving): Adds subtle heat.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): Creates a creamy, nutty finish.

Substitutions and Variations

Pasta: Swap with zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or low-carb pasta (e.g., shirataki or almond flour-based) for keto (~5g net carbs per serving).
Leeks: Replace with green onions, shallots, or yellow onions for a similar flavor.
Parmesan: Use pecorino, nutritional yeast (for vegan), or dairy-free Parmesan.
Basil: Substitute with parsley, cilantro, or a mix of fresh herbs.
Lemon: Use Meyer lemon or lime for a different citrus profile.
Add-Ins: Include 1 cup spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies.
Keto Adjustment: Use low-carb pasta, reduce leeks to 1, and ensure Parmesan is full-fat.
Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne with the garlic.
Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans for a heartier dish.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in Skillet

In a large skillet with 2-inch sides, combine 12 oz spaghetti (or linguine/bucatini), 4½ cups water, 2 thinly sliced leeks, 2 thinly sliced garlic cloves, zest of 1 lemon, 3 basil sprigs, 1 tsp kosher salt, and ¾ tsp black pepper.

Tip: Use a wide skillet to ensure even cooking; break long pasta in half if needed to fit.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until the water is nearly gone and the pasta is al dente.

Tip: Stir frequently to prevent sticking; add an extra ¼ cup water if pasta isn’t cooked and water evaporates too quickly.

Step 3: Finish and Serve

Remove the basil sprigs (if desired) and add the juice of 1 lemon and 1 cup grated Parmesan. Toss to combine until creamy.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra lemon zest. Serve immediately.

Tip: Toss quickly to melt Parmesan evenly; garnish just before serving for vibrant flavor.