Lemon Cilantro Pasta

1. To make the pasta: In a large pot, bring 4 quarts/liters of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt, followed by the pasta. Cook until al dente (i.e., slightly firm to the bite, not crunchy nor soft). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, and drain the pasta.
   
   
2. As the pasta boils, make the sauce: In a large skillet (large enough to accommodate the pasta), heat oil over medium heat (this is important...it should not be really hot). Add garlic and cook until fragrant and tender, stirring occasionally, 2-3 minutes. CAREFULLY & SLOWLY add the reserved pasta cooking water in a VERY slow stream (adding water to very hot oil can be dangerous), and simmer until water has reduced by about a third, about 5 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon table salt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cooked pasta, and toss. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro and Parmesan (start with ½ cup and add more as you wish).
   
   
3. Serve immediately.
   
   
4. Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 3 days.

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