Description
A quick and flavorful Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta featuring a silky garlic butter sauce, fresh lemon zest and juice, and Parmesan cheese tossed with spaghetti or fettuccine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this easy Italian-inspired pasta dish is bright, creamy, and comforting.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
Finishing Touch
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and the optional red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Reduce heat to low, add the drained pasta to the skillet, and toss well to coat with the garlic butter mixture evenly.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to the pasta. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the pasta looks dry, gradually stir in the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your preferred creaminess.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta, toss lightly, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or steamed vegetables to create a complete meal.
- For richer flavor, substitute half the butter with olive oil or add a splash of cream.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.
