Description
This bright and buttery lemon garlic pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner, ready in about 20 minutes. A simple yet elegant sauce is made with pantry staples like garlic, lemon, butter, and Parmesan cheese. The bright acidity of the lemon cuts through the rich butter and garlic, creating a sauce that is both light and deeply flavorful. This fast and satisfying meal feels special without any of the fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti or linguine
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Just before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water.
- Toss everything together continuously over low heat until the butter, cheese, and pasta water emulsify into a creamy, glossy sauce that coats the pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley, serve immediately, and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients like fresh garlic, a fresh lemon, and a block of Parmesan cheese that you grate yourself.
- This pasta is a wonderful base for additions. Feel free to add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables like asparagus or spinach.
- Do not skip reserving the pasta water. The starch in the water is essential for creating a smooth, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Nutrition
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