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Capellini noodles recipe tossed with olive oil and lemon zest in a white bowl

Capellini Noodles: What They Are, How to Cook Them, and Best Ways to Serve

A light and flavorful capellini noodles recipe made with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Ready in under 15 minutes, this quick pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces capellini noodles
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional)
  • tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Large skillet
  • 1 Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the capellini noodles and cook for 2–4 minutes until al dente.
  3. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain the noodles.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds.
  5. Add the lemon juice and optional lemon zest.
  6. Toss the cooked capellini into the skillet and mix gently.
  7. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a silky sauce.
  8. Stir in parsley and season with salt and black pepper.
  9. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Notes

  • Do not overcook capellini, as it becomes soft very quickly.
  • Reserve pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles.
  • Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture.