Description
Creamy Lemon Pasta is a quick and easy dish that combines tangy lemon flavor with a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a light dinner or lunch, this comforting pasta comes together in under 30 minutes and is a great vegetarian option.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice, then pour in heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be reheated gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water.
- Try adding peas or spinach for added color and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
