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Lemon Butter Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe

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4.2 from 9 reviews

A quick and delicious Lemon Butter Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan, combining simple ingredients like garlic, fresh lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese to create a glossy, flavorful weeknight dinner pasta that’s easy to prepare and bursting with bright, buttery flavors.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 200 grams dried pasta (or 300 grams fresh)

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 70 grams butter, cold from fridge, cut into four cubes
  • 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, depending on your preference
  • 40 grams Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • ½ cup Italian parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon to avoid browning—garlic should lightly sizzle but not color.
  3. Add Lemon Zest and Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the lemon zest and red pepper flakes (if using) and let them sizzle gently with the garlic oil for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
  4. Create the Sauce Base: Pour in ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and let the mixture simmer gently for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly reduce the liquid.
  5. Toss the Pasta with Butter: Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with the cold butter cubes. Toss constantly until the butter melts and emulsifies with the pasta water, forming a glossy, creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
  6. Add Lemon Juice: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to brighten the sauce, adjusting to taste.
  7. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Reduce heat to low, sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the pasta, and allow it to melt undisturbed for 1-2 minutes. Then, use tongs to swirl and toss the pasta continuously, creating a rich, glossy sauce.
  8. Adjust Consistency: Add a splash more reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce, tossing well to integrate.
  9. Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning by adding more lemon juice if desired. Off the heat, toss in the chopped parsley, then serve the pasta immediately while warm and fragrant.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water carefully as it’s essential for emulsifying the sauce.
  • Do not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit if desired.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal melting and flavor.
  • This recipe is best served immediately for the creamiest texture.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/lemon-butter-pasta-with-garlic-and-parmesan-recipe/