Irresistible Lemon Butter Pasta Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

There’s something irresistibly comforting about lemon butter pasta. The way the buttery sauce clings to each strand of pasta creates a symphony of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Each bite bursts with the brightness of fresh lemon, while the silky texture wraps you in a warm culinary hug.

I remember the first time I made this dish for friends. As they twirled their forks and savored each mouthful, their delighted expressions reminded me why I love cooking. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering.

I whipped up this dish on a rainy Sunday, and the aroma filled my kitchen, leading to rave reviews from everyone at the table.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite type; spaghetti or fettuccine work wonderfully for this recipe.

• Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for that rich flavor; it truly makes a difference.

• Fresh Garlic: Opt for fresh garlic cloves over powdered for a more robust aroma and taste.

• Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; bottled juice just won’t cut it.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate your cheese fresh for superior melt and flavor – no pre-grated stuff here!

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; it’s like confetti on your plate!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Gather Your Tools

First things first, gather all your tools: a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for the sauce, and a grater if you’re freshly grating cheese.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sauté Garlic

While your pasta cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until it starts bubbling lightly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute, being careful not to let it brown.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve some pasta water. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with garlic butter, tossing to coat evenly in that luxurious sauce.

Add Lemon Juice and Cheese

Pour in freshly squeezed lemon juice along with grated Parmesan cheese while tossing everything together gently. If needed, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until desired creaminess is achieved.

Garnish and Serve

To finish off, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness and color before serving immediately. Enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful lemon butter pasta!

This lemon butter pasta recipe is bound to become one of your go-to dishes! Its flavors are bright enough to lift any mood — trust me; you’ll want seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta to al dente perfection while melting butter in a separate pan. Then, toss in minced garlic for added flavor before mixing everything together with fresh lemon juice. This sequence ensures that every bite bursts with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize by adding sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken for protein. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an unexpected kick. Make it your own and enjoy experimenting with flavors!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lemon butter pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to revive those creamy textures.

Sometimes, I whip up this lemon butter pasta when my friends come over, and their smiles are the best feedback I could ask for!

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for lemon butter pasta?

Any long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine pairs perfectly with the sauce.

Can I make lemon butter pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just leave out any meat and consider adding vegetables instead.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Keep the heat low and stir continuously to maintain a creamy consistency throughout cooking.

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Lemon Butter Pasta

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Lemon butter pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of butter with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. This quick and easy recipe wraps each pasta strand in a creamy sauce, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish guarantees smiles at the dinner table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 8 oz spaghetti
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
2. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Drain pasta, reserving some cooking water, and add it to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat.
4. Stir in fresh lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese. If needed, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until creamy.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg