Garlic Lemon Pasta Recipe with Black Garlic: Creamy & Full of Umami

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp I Love Black Garlic Purée
• 2 tbsp butter
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (or vegan alternative)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta Boil in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté garlic In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add sliced fresh garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant and just golden.
3. Add black garlic Stir in black garlic purée, letting it melt into the oil to form a rich base.
4. Make the sauce Add butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of pasta water. Whisk until glossy.
5. Toss pasta Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss well with Parmesan, adding more water as needed for a silky coating.
6. Season and serve Adjust with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Garnish with parsley and extra lemon zest.

Tips and Variations

• For creamier sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone before tossing the pasta.
• Protein boost: Top with seared shrimp, grilled chicken, or roasted chickpeas.
• Make it vegan: Use olive oil only and a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
• Storage: Keeps 2 days in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of water and a drizzle of olive oil.

More Black Garlic Recipes

Try Honey Garlic Chicken with Black Garlic for a sweet-savory main, or drizzle your pasta with Black Garlic Oil (Mayu) for even more umami.

Make It With The Best Black Garlic

Use I Love Black Garlic Purée for a smooth texture that blends seamlessly into sauces and pastas.