Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a burst of fresh flavors? Meet the Herby Lemon Tahini Pasta—an Italian-inspired dish that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds! With its creamy tahini sauce, zesty lemon kick, and vibrant herbs, this dish is the perfect weeknight dinner that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re a busy professional or a culinary novice, this recipe promises to impress without the fuss. Dive into this quick and delicious meal that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or dill)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Finely chop the fresh herbs, reserving a small amount for garnish.
- When pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Return the hot pasta to the pot and immediately pour the tahini-lemon sauce over it. Toss thoroughly to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy consistency.
- Fold in most of the chopped fresh herbs, saving some for final garnish.
- Transfer pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl. Sprinkle remaining fresh herbs on top.
- Serve immediately while hot, with additional lemon wedges and cracked black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, opt for shapes like penne or fusilli that hold onto the creamy sauce well.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Adding a generous pinch of salt to your boiling water is crucial. It enhances the flavor of the pasta itself.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water helps to create a creamy sauce when mixed with the tahini.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, feel free to add more tahini or a splash of olive oil. For a lighter version, use less.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs based on your preference or what you have on hand. Fresh basil, parsley, and dill all bring unique flavors to the dish.
- Serve Fresh: This pasta is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. If you need to make it ahead, store the sauce separately and combine just before serving.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can elevate the dish even further.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 344kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
