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Lady Gaga Pasta

Lady Gaga Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines al dente pasta with a spicy garlic and chili sauce, brightened by lemon juice and fresh basil. The dish is finished with a drizzle of good olive oil, resulting in a lively, slightly spicy, and aromatic pasta that’s quick to prepare and endlessly customizable.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g pasta (penne or rigatoni) preferably al dente
  • 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 8 leaves basil chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wide skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Ladle or small measuring cup
  • Wooden spoon or tongs

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain in a colander.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to gently bubble.
  3. Add the finely chopped garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet with the garlic and chili oil, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly.
  5. Pour in a splash of reserved pasta water and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring vigorously to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly and thicken slightly.
  6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta, add the chopped basil, and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil. Toss everything together until well combined and fragrant.
  7. Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately, garnished with additional basil or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Feel free to customize by adding cherry tomatoes or a pinch more chili for extra flavor. Remember to taste and adjust lemon or chili levels to your preference for the perfect lively bite.