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Lemon Pasta with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe

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3.8 from 54 reviews

A creamy, tangy Lemon Pasta recipe that combines al dente spaghetti with a luscious lemon-infused butter and cream sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a refreshing and comforting meal that balances zesty citrus and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 16 oz package dry spaghetti

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest of 2 medium lemons (divided use)
  • 1/4-1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4-1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (divided use)
  • 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)

Garnish

  • 3 Tbsp chopped fresh Italian parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside. The pasta will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Prepare Sauce Base: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in half of the lemon zest and the lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  3. Add Cream and Seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream, then add salt, freshly ground black pepper, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir continuously and let the sauce simmer for 4 to 6 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Incorporate Cheese and Pasta: Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
  5. Adjust Consistency: Gradually add the reserved pasta water, about 1/4 cup at a time, tossing the pasta to reach your preferred sauce consistency. The pasta water helps the sauce cling nicely to the noodles.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, a pinch of black pepper, and the chopped fresh Italian parsley over the pasta. Serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful dish.

Notes

  • Herbs: Experiment with fresh basil or rosemary for additional aromatic flavors.
  • Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding baby spinach, steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or capers for texture and nutrition.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/lemon-pasta-with-parmesan-and-garlic-recipe/