Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Before draining, scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water and set aside.

- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes, cooking until the garlic is golden and aromatic, about 1 minute—be careful not to burn it.

- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, and a splash of reserved pasta water until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.

- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic and chili oil. Toss to coat the noodles evenly, letting them absorb the flavors for about 1 minute.

- Pour the lemon-honey sauce over the pasta, then add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta glistens and the sauce is silky, about 2 minutes.

- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more lemon for brightness or honey for sweetness. Serve hot, topped with additional chili flakes if desired.
Notes
Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce for extra rebellion. Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent burning, and adjust chili flakes to your heat preference.
