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Lemon Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 2 reviews

A bright and creamy Lemon Pasta recipe that combines al dente spaghetti with a luscious butter, lemon zest, and garlic sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect light and flavorful meal for two.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into pats)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest (plus more for garnish)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (plus more to taste)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Garnish

  • Chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water just before draining.
  2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter foams, reduce the heat to low and add the lemon zest and minced garlic. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat if the pasta is still cooking.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the lemon butter sauce using tongs. Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and toss over low heat until the sauce lightly coats the pasta. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese and continue tossing. Add the lemon juice and remaining cheese, tossing again until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce thickens or clumps, add more pasta water to loosen it. Season with salt, pepper, and extra lemon juice to taste.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional lemon zest and chopped fresh parsley or basil over the pasta. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce easily.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add freshness and color.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end carefully, as Parmesan cheese adds saltiness.
  • This recipe is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best texture.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/lemon-pasta-recipe/