Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Pasta is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that balances the tangy freshness of lemon with the richness of butter and Parmesan cheese. The creamy texture from the butter and the sharpness from the lemon creates a satisfying contrast, while the fresh herbs add a burst of flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and citrusy or need a quick meal that feels indulgent, this pasta is a perfect choice. Plus, it’s easy to make in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, stirring occasionally.
Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss to combine and coat the pasta in the sauce.
Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to help create a silky sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: To make this dish heartier, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables.
Lemon Herb: Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the herbal notes of the pasta.
Creamy Lemon Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Spicy Lemon Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Vegan Version: Replace the butter with olive oil and use a vegan Parmesan substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra olive oil or water to help loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.

2. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

3. Can I add more lemon to the dish?

Yes, feel free to add extra lemon juice or zest for a stronger lemon flavor.

4. What can I pair with this Lemon Pasta?

This pasta pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a side salad for a complete meal.

5. How do I keep the pasta from sticking together after draining?

To prevent sticking, make sure you toss the pasta with a little olive oil or the sauce immediately after draining.

6. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

7. Can I freeze Lemon Pasta?

It’s not ideal to freeze this dish as the texture of the sauce may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

8. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes would complement the flavors beautifully.

9. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more Parmesan cheese or a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce.

10. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Lemon Pasta is a delightful, quick, and easy dish that combines the fresh brightness of lemons with the creamy richness of butter and Parmesan cheese. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this recipe is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!

Lemon Pasta

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This easy Lemon Pasta recipe is a zesty, creamy, and refreshing dish that combines the bright flavor of lemon with buttery pasta and Parmesan cheese. A perfect light lunch or dinner, this quick recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, with customizable variations like creamy, spicy, or vegan options.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 5min
Cook Time: 20min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lemon (zested and juiced)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup unsalted butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir occasionally.
Stir in lemon zest and juice. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
Gradually add the reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
For a creamy twist, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Make it dairy-free by substituting butter with olive oil and using dairy-free Parmesan.