Lemon Parmesan Pasta Recipe
If you're looking for a dish that balances creamy richness with bright, zesty flavors, this Lemon Parmesan Pasta is a must-try—it’s quick, easy, and utterly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.
Equipment
- A large pot
- A skillet
- A strainer
- A microplane or grater
- A stirring spoon or tongs
- A sharp knife
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 lemon
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 9-11 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
- Make the Sauce:While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but not burnt.
- Add Lemon & Cream:To the skillet, add the lemon zest and juice, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture together and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired sauce consistency.
- Finish the Dish:Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated and the cheese has melted into the sauce.
- Serve:Divide the pasta into 4 servings and enjoy immediately, optionally garnishing with more Parmesan or fresh herbs.
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Notes
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente (firm to the bite) so it can absorb the sauce and hold its shape when mixed.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add more cream or Parmesan. If you like it lighter, you can reduce the cream or add a splash of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a much richer, more intense flavor than pre-grated cheese, making your pasta taste more authentic.
- Balance the Lemon: If you want a stronger lemon flavor, add more zest or juice. However, be careful not to overpower the dish—start with a little and taste as you go.
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starch in the pasta water helps thicken the sauce and helps it adhere better to the pasta. Always save a bit of the water before draining!
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Lemon Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Serving Size
200 g
Amount per Serving
Calories
600
% Daily Value*
Fat
32
g
49
%
Saturated Fat
14
g
88
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
14
g
Cholesterol
60
mg
20
%
Sodium
350
mg
15
%
Potassium
450
mg
13
%
Carbohydrates
60
g
20
%
Fiber
3
g
13
%
Sugar
2
g
2
%
Protein
15
g
30
%
Vitamin A
100
IU
2
%
Vitamin C
15
mg
18
%
Calcium
150
mg
15
%
Iron
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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