Simple Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe with a Creamy Sauce
Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta combines tender pasta with a smooth garlic cream sauce brightened by fresh lemon and finished with Parmesan cheese and herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 garlic cloves minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup reserved pasta cooking liquid
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until tender with slight firmness. Reserve pasta cooking liquid and drain.
2. Warm olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice.
6. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until melted.
7. Add cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water, tossing until coated.
8. Season with salt and black pepper.
9. Finish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately.
Notes
Add pasta cooking liquid gradually until the sauce reaches a smooth consistency. Spinach or grilled chicken can be added for variation.