Description
This quick and zesty Lemon Pasta recipe features al dente spaghetti tossed in a creamy, buttery lemon sauce with garlic and Parmesan, garnished with fresh herbs and extra lemon zest. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect light and flavorful meal for two.
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
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water just before draining.
- Prepare the lemon butter sauce: A few minutes before the pasta finishes, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until foaming. Lower the heat, then add lemon zest and minced garlic. Stir and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat if the pasta is still cooking.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Transfer the drained pasta to the skillet with the butter mixture using tongs. Pour in ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and toss over low heat until the sauce coats the pasta nicely. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese, then add lemon juice and remaining cheese, tossing again to form a smooth sauce. Add more pasta water as needed to loosen. Season with salt, pepper, and additional lemon juice to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle additional lemon zest and fresh parsley or basil over the pasta. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Reserve pasta water to help the sauce emulsify and coat the pasta.
- Adjust lemon juice to balance tanginess according to your taste preference.
- This dish is best served fresh to enjoy its vibrant flavors and creamy texture.
- Substitute fresh basil for parsley if preferred for garnish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
