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–+ servings

Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Lemon Pasta is light, refreshing, and so easy to make! Using only simple ingredients like lemon juice, olive oil, and Parmesan, this dish delivers a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream or butter. It's a perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something quick, light, and flavorful.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 1

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz 0.75 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • ¼ cup 0.06 L olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced
  • ½ cup 0.12 lb grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup 0.24 L reserved pasta water
  • Chopped parsley for garnish optional

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant, but not browned.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce

  • Lower the heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
  • Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, stirring until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 4: Toss with Pasta and Cheese

  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon sauce.
  • Stir in the Parmesan cheese, tossing continuously until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Add more pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  • Transfer the pasta to plates, and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Vegan Option: Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use a vegan-friendly pasta for a plant-based version.
  • Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms make great additions to this pasta.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to restore the creamy texture.
  • Make it Creamier: For a richer sauce, add a few tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or a touch of ricotta cheese at the end.
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