20-Minute Creamy Lemon Pasta
This 20-Minute Creamy Lemon Pasta is a quick, comforting meal bursting with zesty lemon flavor and a luxuriously smooth sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines fresh lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan to create a bright yet creamy dish that feels elegant and satisfying ready in just minutes!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti linguine, or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or dairy-free alternative
- 1 lemon juiced and zested
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Optional Add-Ins:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Spinach or asparagus
- Chili flakes for heat
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Make the sauce: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in cream, lemon juice, and zest. Let simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine: Add pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Finish: Stir in Parmesan cheese, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and top with fresh herbs. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Keep the heat low when combining cream and lemon to prevent curdling.
- For a vegan version, use cashew cream or coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
- Add extra lemon zest for a brighter flavor profile.