Description
This zesty lemon pasta bursts with fresh, vibrant flavor and a creamy texture. A simple yet delightful dish combining al dente pasta, citrusy lemon zest, and a touch of Parmesan, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Cream: Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate the Lemon: Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice, cook 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine with Pasta: Add drained pasta to the skillet, toss to coat. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan until melted and evenly distributed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil/parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor.
- Do not overcook garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust lemon juice for desired acidity.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Let sauce thicken before adding pasta for clingy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: lemon, pasta, garlic, creamy, fresh, vegetarian, quick dinner