Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe
Craving a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this easy and creamy lemon pasta recipe, a perfect dish that combines simplicity with bursts of flavor. Whether you’re a gourmet chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will bring a touch of elegance to your dinner table in no time. Ready to dive into a bowl of creamy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Growing up, Sundays were always pasta nights at my grandmother’s house. While there were many delicious recipes she cooked, the lemon-infused pasta was always a crowd favorite. It was her secret cure for a long week, serving comfort and joy with every bite. Now, I’ve adapted her beloved dish, keeping its creamy richness while adding a zesty twist perfect for today’s palate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just about flavors; it’s the whole experience. Quick and Easy: Designed for busy lives, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes. Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. Versatile: This dish can be a comforting solo dinner or a star dish at your next dinner party.
Ingredients Notes
Our ingredients are straightforward yet powerful. Opt for fresh lemons as they are essential for that citrusy punch. To elevate the creaminess, choose high-quality cream, and if you’re lactose-intolerant, coconut cream is an excellent substitute. Don’t forget the parmesan for that savory kick! If you’re out of parmesan, nutritional yeast offers a great alternative.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Boil generously salted water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2
In a separate sauté pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to brown it.
Step 3
Stir in the zest of one lemon and cooking cream. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes before adding freshly squeezed lemon juice.
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Step 4
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, combining everything thoroughly. Use reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency.
Step 5
Finish with a generous sprinkle of parmesan, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to retain creaminess. To freeze, place in a suitable container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
To make this dish vegan, replace cream and parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast, respectively. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Vegetables like spinach or peas pair well, adding color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy lemon pasta as a standalone for a simple lunch or paired with a crisp side salad for dinner. It’s perfect for casual dining or can be dressed up with fancy tableware for a celebration meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of pasta? Absolutely! While spaghetti or fettuccine work beautifully, you can use any pasta you prefer or have on hand. Penne or rotini are great for holding the creamy sauce.
Is lemon zest necessary? Yes, lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor throughout the dish, contributing an essential depth of flavor. Make sure to zest before juicing your lemon.
How can I prevent the sauce from curdling? To avoid curdling, ensure the cream is at room temperature before adding it to the hot pan. Also, gradually warm it with other ingredients, rather than shocking it with high heat suddenly.
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Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream for a creamy texture
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp lemon zest from 1 large lemon
- 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 0.5 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until well coated with the cream sauce.
- Add Parmesan cheese and toss until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
