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lemon pasta recipe

lemon pasta recipe

This lemon pasta recipe is the perfect mix of creamy, zesty, and refreshing flavors. Combining butter, garlic, cream, and fresh lemon juice, this dish delivers a light yet satisfying meal that’s ideal for quick dinners or sunny summer lunches.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • For the Lemon Pasta:
  • 12 oz 340 g spaghetti or linguine
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced
  • ½ cup 120 ml heavy cream
  • ½ cup 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional Add-Ins:
  • Grilled chicken or shrimp for protein
  • Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
  • Extra lemon zest or Parmesan for topping

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta:
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  3. Make the sauce:
  4. In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the lemon:
  6. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1–2 minutes to release the citrus flavor.
  7. Create the creamy base:
  8. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk until the sauce becomes smooth.
  9. Add cheese:
  10. Stir in grated Parmesan until it melts into the sauce. Adjust with a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  11. Combine:
  12. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well until each strand is evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  13. Serve:
  14. Garnish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, or more lemon zest. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • For lemon butter pasta, skip the cream and let butter and lemon be the star of the dish.
  • To make it a creamy lemon pasta, use full-fat cream and whisk until silky smooth.
  • For a lighter version, replace cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
  • Chill leftovers and turn them into a lemon pasta salad — perfect for picnics or summer lunches.
  • Love Alfredo-style sauces? Try making lemon Alfredo pasta by increasing the cheese and cream.