Lemon Pasta
When life gives you lemons, make Lemon Pasta! This delightful dish brings together the zesty brightness of fresh lemon, the richness of butter, and the savory depth of garlic, all tossed with spaghetti to create a meal that is both simple and luxurious. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this Lemon Pasta recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a plate of pasta that will impress your family and friends, leaving them begging for seconds.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Lemon Pasta is not only refreshing and delicious, but it also embodies the spirit of effortless cooking. The combination of bright lemon, creamy butter, and nutty Parmesan cheese creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is hard to resist. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for those nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables, allowing you to customize it to your liking. This Lemon Pasta recipe is a must-try that will quickly find its way into your regular dinner rotation.
Ingredient Checklist
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 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
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish
Equipment at a Glance
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining spaghetti
- Large skillet for sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater for Parmesan cheese
- Knife and cutting board for garlic and herbs
How to Prepare Lemon Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the sliced pats of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the pasta in the butter, then sprinkle in the lemon zest and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and stir everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce if necessary.
Step 4: Season and Garnish
Season the pasta with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest, more Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Health-Conscious Tweaks
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil.
- Use whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti to suit dietary needs.
- Increase the vegetable content by adding sautéed spinach, arugula, or cherry tomatoes.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan alternative.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
This Lemon Pasta is incredibly forgiving, allowing for adjustments based on your personal tastes. If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice and zest. Alternatively, if you like a creamier sauce, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche right before serving. This dish is also an excellent base for adding proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp, allowing you to create a heartier meal.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Lemon Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. When meal prepping, consider preparing the pasta and sauce separately, allowing you to combine them fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Reader Q&A
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Any type of pasta will work well in this recipe. Feel free to experiment with penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make Lemon Pasta more filling, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus. These additions will complement the flavors beautifully.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make Lemon Pasta vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. You can also add more vegetables for added texture and flavor.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
While the sauce is best made fresh to maintain its creamy texture, you can prep the garlic and lemon zest in advance. Just combine them with the butter when you’re ready to prepare the dish.
Wrap-Up
Lemon Pasta is a delightful and simple dish that captures the essence of fresh flavors and comfort in every bite. With its bright, citrusy notes and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a small family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will leave everyone raving about your culinary skills. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a plate of Lemon Pasta that will brighten up your meal and your day!
Lemon Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the sliced pats of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat the pasta in the butter, then sprinkle in the lemon zest and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and stir everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce if necessary.
- Season the pasta with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest, more Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the butter with olive oil.
- Use whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti to suit dietary needs.
- Increase vegetable content by adding sautéed spinach, arugula, or cherry tomatoes.
