Orange-Basil Linguine
A bright, citrusy linguine that marries sweet orange with fragrant basil, finished with a touch of Parmesan—perfect for a quick, light dinner that feels indulgent yet low‑calorie.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. reduced‑calorie margarine, melted ⓘ
- 1/2 cup canned chicken broth
- 1/2 cup unsweetened orange juice ⓘ
- 2 tsp. cornstarch ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped basil leaves ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. grated orange rind ⓘ
- 3 cups hot, cooked whole wheat linguine, cooked without salt or fat ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
- fresh orange slices (optional)
- fresh basil sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the margarine, chicken broth, orange juice, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Stir well, bring to a boil, and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the chopped basil and grated orange rind, stirring to combine.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked linguine and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices and basil sprigs, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of low-fat cream or Greek yogurt. If you're out of fresh basil, dried basil can be used in a pinch—just reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon. You can also swap whole wheat linguine for regular linguine or even zucchini noodles for a lighter dish. This dish can be prepared quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Orange-Basil Linguine warm, garnished with fresh orange slices and basil sprigs for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp, making it a great addition to any Italian recipes spread. A side salad with citrus dressing complements the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the linguine in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or orange juice to keep the pasta moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange-Basil Linguine contains roughly 56 calories, with 2g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh orange juice will enhance the flavor of the dish. Just ensure it's unsweetened to maintain the intended taste balance. Freshly squeezed juice can elevate the dish and provide a vibrant, zesty profile.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute for chicken broth. Additionally, you can use homemade broth or even water in a pinch, though this will slightly alter the flavor. Just be mindful of seasoning.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Orange-Basil Linguine gluten-free, simply substitute whole wheat linguine with gluten-free pasta, which is widely available in stores. Cook it according to package instructions, and the dish will still retain its delicious flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).