Description
Lemon Pasta is a bright, buttery, and flavorful easy recipe that turns simple pantry staples into a fresh and comforting meal. This quick dinner is perfect for busy weeknights, easy lunch plans, and simple food ideas when you want something light, zesty, and satisfying. With tender pasta, garlic, Parmesan, and fresh lemon, this dish fits beautifully into easy dinner, quick lunch, and pasta dinner ideas.
Ingredients
12 ounces linguine or spaghetti
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large lemon, zested
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice, then let it warm for about 1 minute.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon butter mixture.
6. Pour in a little reserved pasta water and toss until the sauce becomes light and silky.
7. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, then toss again until evenly combined.
8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
Reserve pasta water before draining so the sauce blends smoothly.
Serve immediately for the best texture and freshest citrus taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
Keywords: lemon pasta, easy dinner, quick dinner, pasta dinner ideas, easy recipe, food ideas, lemon garlic pasta