Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is a delightful mix of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. The buttery garlic sauce is enhanced with lemon zest and juice, giving the dish a burst of citrus that cuts through the richness of the cream. The simple ingredients—linguine, butter, heavy cream, Parmesan, and lemon—combine to create a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. You’ll love how easily this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a special addition to a dinner party menu.

Ingredients

• 12 oz linguine

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the garlic for about a minute until fragrant.

3. Add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, mixing to coat well. Add pasta water gradually if needed to loosen the sauce.

5. Stir in Parmesan until smooth and melted. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

• Use fresh lemon juice for a more vibrant flavor.

• For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

• Try different pasta shapes, like fettuccine or spaghetti, if you don’t have linguine.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy texture.

• Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

1. How do I make sure the garlic doesn’t get bitter?

To prevent garlic from becoming bitter, sauté it for only a minute or until fragrant. Don’t let it brown too much.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

3. Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind the sauce may be slightly thinner and less rich.

4. How do I make sure the sauce is smooth?

To ensure a smooth sauce, gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt fully before tossing in the pasta. Add a bit of pasta water if needed.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully, feel free to use other pasta shapes like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir them into the sauce to add some heat.

7. Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?

Yes, pre-grated Parmesan will work, but freshly grated Parmesan will give a creamier texture and better flavor.

8. Can I freeze the leftovers?

This pasta doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

9. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or roasted tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

10. What other herbs can I use for garnish?

In addition to parsley, you could use basil, thyme, or chives to garnish the pasta.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta is a deliciously indulgent dish that balances creamy richness with a zesty burst of lemon. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week or a special occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy this easy, flavorful pasta dish today!

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