Description
A vibrant Italian pasta dish blending zesty lemon, savory garlic, and rich cream for an elegant yet easy meal. Brighten up weeknight dinners with this adaptable, indulgent sauce that clings perfectly to al dente pasta.
Ingredients
12 oz (340g) spaghetti
2 oz (55g) unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
1/4 cup (20g) grated Parmesan
1 large lemon (zest + 1/4 cup juice)
Instructions
Bring 4 quarts salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).
Pour in heavy cream, lemon zest, and juiced lemon. Stir constantly until sauce thickens slightly (3-4 minutes).
Reduce heat to low. Stir in grated Parmesan until smooth and glossy. Season with salt (if needed).
Drain cooked pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water. Add to saucepan with sauce, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is achieved.
Notes
Use salted butter to reduce added salt
Substitute coconut milk for lactose-free version
Finely microplane garlic and lemon zest for optimal flavor
Reheat leftovers with a splash of water or broth to maintain texture
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 95mg