This Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s ready in minutes. With the brightness of fresh lemons, the creaminess of Parmesan, and the perfect al dente pasta, this recipe is a quick, delicious meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
What is Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta?
Lemon Pasta is a minimalist Italian-inspired dish that combines fresh lemon zest and juice, Parmesan cheese, and pasta with a touch of olive oil for a creamy, tangy, and satisfying meal. Jamie Oliver’s version emphasizes simplicity, using only 5 ingredients to create a dish that’s both elegant and fuss-free.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Simple ingredients: Requires just 5 staples.
- Bright and refreshing: Perfect for light meals or as a side dish.
- Versatile: Add protein or veggies to customize.
- Elegant yet affordable: A restaurant-quality dish you can make at home.
Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta
- 300g dried spaghetti
- 2 lemons, zest and juice
- 50g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Zester or grater
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Lemon Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and olive oil. Whisk until well blended to form a creamy mixture.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the lemon mixture. Toss well, adding a splash of reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust with more lemon juice, Parmesan, or salt if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta
- Grilled chicken or shrimp: Adds protein to make it a complete meal.
- Steamed vegetables: Asparagus or green beans pair well.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up the sauce.
- Mixed green salad: For a light and refreshing side.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed juice and zest provide the best flavor.
- Save pasta water: It’s key to creating a creamy, cohesive sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it al dente for the best texture.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can make it heartier.
- Experiment with herbs: Add parsley or thyme for extra depth.
How Do I Store Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta?
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: Lemon pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta?
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for lemon pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer for lemon pasta. Linguine, fettuccine, or tagliatelle work well as substitutes for spaghetti, as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni can also be used if desired.
How do I make lemon pasta creamier?
To make lemon pasta creamier, you can add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the lemon mixture. Alternatively, mix in a small amount of softened cream cheese for a rich, velvety texture.
Can I add protein to lemon pasta?
Yes, adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed scallops pairs wonderfully with lemon pasta. You can also toss in chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian protein option.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh lemons?
If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Add a pinch of lemon zest (if available) or lemon extract to enhance the citrusy flavor.
Final Words
This Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. With its bright, zesty flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to elegant entertainment. Try it today for a taste of effortless deliciousness!
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Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lemon Pasta Recipe – Quick and Zesty
Lemon Pasta is a minimalist Italian-inspired dish that combines fresh lemon zest and juice, Parmesan cheese, and pasta with a touch of olive oil for a creamy, tangy, and satisfying meal. Jamie Oliver’s version emphasizes simplicity, using only 5 ingredients to create a dish that’s both elegant and fuss-free.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 300g dried spaghetti
- 2 lemons, zest and juice
- 50g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Lemon Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and olive oil. Whisk until well blended to form a creamy mixture.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the lemon mixture. Toss well, adding a splash of reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust with more lemon juice, Parmesan, or salt if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.