Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe – Easy & Creamy

Lemon garlic pasta is a delicious and simple dish that’s perfect for any occasion! It’s amazing how just a few ingredients can create such a fantastic meal! The fresh, tangy flavor of lemons combined with the savory taste of garlic makes this pasta a real crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just yourself, this dish is a winner every time!

The beauty of lemon garlic pasta lies in its simplicity and the vibrant burst of flavors it brings to the table. It’s a dish that manages to be both comforting and refreshing at the same time, making it a go-to choice when you crave something satisfying yet light. With just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress without breaking a sweat. So, next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and effortless meal, give this lemon garlic pasta a try—it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Lemon garlic pasta is my go-to when I want something that’s both easy and satisfying! The simplicity of the ingredients means you can focus on enjoying the rich flavors and creamy texture without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for a new recipe to try, this one is sure to become a staple in your repertoire! So grab your ingredients, put on some music, and let’s cook up a delicious meal together!

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In short, lemon garlic pasta is all about simple, delicious flavors. It’s easy to make, yet always impresses with its vibrant taste and look. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, you’ll find this dish both satisfying and delightful. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, bringing a bit of Mediterranean sunshine to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Pasta?

Simple and Quick: Easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Fresh Flavors: The zesty lemon and savory garlic create a refreshing and vibrant taste.
Versatile: Can be served alone or paired with proteins like chicken, shrimp, or fish.
Visually Appealing: Golden pasta with green herbs and grated Parmesan looks beautiful on the plate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Appeals to a wide range of tastes, from kids to adults.
Minimal Ingredients: Requires just a few basic, easily accessible ingredients.
Elegant: Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Customizable: Easy to adjust flavors and add-ins to suit personal preferences.
Light yet Satisfying: Provides a fulfilling meal without being too heavy.
Mediterranean Vibe: Brings a touch of sunny, Mediterranean cuisine to your table.

Ingredients You Need

Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine): For lemon garlic pasta, use spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine as these types hold the light sauce well and complement the dish’s flavors.
Olive oil/Butter: Use extra virgin olive oil for a rich and robust flavor or butter for an even richer flavor.
Garlic (minced): Freshly minced garlic releases more aroma and taste compared to pre-minced versions.

Lemons (juice and zest): Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the dish with its signature bright and zesty flavor.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a nutty, creamy finish.
Salt and black pepper: Season to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as needed to enhance the flavors.
Pasta water (reserved): Save a cup of starchy cooking water to help create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
Fresh parsley/basil/mint (chopped): Adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness to the dish.

How To Make

Step 1: Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook 12 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine) until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 2: Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.

Instead of heating olive oil, melt 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Swapping olive oil for butter will give the dish a richer, creamier flavor profile!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic: Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Lemon: Stir in the juice and zest of 2 lemons, mixing well to combine.

Step 5: Combine Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the lemon garlic mixture.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency: Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 7: Season: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley or basil.

Step 9: Serve: Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.

Additional Tips For The Lemon Garlic Pasta

Certainly! Here are some tips to help you make the perfect lemon garlic pasta:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil will enhance the flavors of the dish.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente (firm to the bite). This ensures the pasta maintains its texture and doesn’t become mushy when combined with the sauce.
Save Pasta Water: Reserve some of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water helps to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
Adjust Consistency: When combining the pasta with the lemon garlic mixture, gradually add the reserved pasta water. This helps to adjust the consistency of the sauce to your liking without making it too dry or too watery.
Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that Parmesan cheese adds saltiness, so taste before adding additional salt.
Garnish: Freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Sprinkle them on top just before serving.
Variations: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added texture and flavor.
Serve Immediately: Lemon garlic pasta is best served immediately after tossing with the sauce to enjoy the flavors at their peak.
Pairing: Serve with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Enjoy the Process: Cooking should be enjoyable! Take your time to savor the aromas and flavors as you prepare and enjoy your lemon garlic pasta.