How do I cook Trader Joe’s lemon torchietti perfectly al dente for this trader joe's lemon torchietti pasta recipe?

Boil in well-salted water and start tasting one minute before package instructions suggest. Stop when the pasta still has a slight bite.

Can I make a creamy version like an Alfredo without it feeling heavy?

Yes. Use a small amount of cream with garlic and butter, then add lemon zest and juice to keep the sauce lively instead of heavy.

What are quick add-ins if I want a chicken version?

Fold in leftover chicken breast or rotisserie chicken at the emulsify step so it warms through without drying out.

How do I turn this into a pasta salad for lunches?

Cool the torchietti, then toss with olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, zucchini, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Add extra lemon before serving for brightness.

Best dairy-free or vegan swap for this recipe?

Olive oil and nutritional yeast create a savory base. Add plant-based cream or toasted nuts for richness and texture.

Trader Joe’s Lemon Torchietti Pasta Recipe For Busy Nights

Description

Trader Joe’s lemon torchietti pasta recipe with garlic, parmesan, and lemon zest for a quick, comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

12–16 oz Trader Joe’s Lemon Torchietti
1½ Tbsp Kosher salt
2 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
1–2 Tbsp Unsalted butter
2–3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 tsp Lemon zest and 2–3 Tbsp Lemon juice
½–¾ cup Grated Parmesan or Pecorino
½–1 cup Reserved starchy pasta water
Black pepper and red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions

Boil and Prep: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Trader Joe’s lemon torchietti pasta and cook until sal dente, about 9–11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
Build the Lemon-Garlic Base: In a wide skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in lemon zest and a splash of reserved pasta water.
Emulsify: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss vigorously with lemon juice and cheese. Gradually add pasta water until a glossy sauce coats the noodles. Season with black pepper or red pepper flakes.
Serve: Plate warm and finish with more zest, herbs, or extra cheese if desired.

Notes

Optional add-ins: shredded chicken, zucchini, mushrooms, or kale for extra nutrition.
For a creamy version, add ½–¾ cup heavy cream to the garlic and butter base.
For vegan, substitute nutritional yeast and plant cream for dairy cheese and butter.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and refresh with a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition values are estimated.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: trader joe's lemon torchietti pasta recipe