Sicilian-Style Lemon Olive Pasta

Ingredients

• 200 g Spaghetti (or linguine)
• 60 g Kalamata olives (pitted)
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 1 tbsp Lemon zest
• 2 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 0.5 tsp Red pepper flakes(optional)
• 0.5 tsp Salt(optional)
• 0.25 tsp Black pepper(optional)
• 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (chopped)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

3. 3

   Add the olives and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes to warm through, then stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.

4. 4

   Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well. Add a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to make it glossy and evenly coated. Season with black pepper (and salt only if needed).

5. 5

   Serve immediately, topped with parsley if using.