By Bring Creamy Garlic Lemon Pasta to your table with an easy method and crowd-pleasing taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike.
Creamy Garlic Lemon Pasta captures the essence of drinks while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Creamy Garlic Lemon Pasta becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
12 ounces linguine, fettuccine, or pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (or more to taste)
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
PREPARATION STEPS
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic to keep the flavor delicate.
Prepare the Sauce:
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce
If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Plate the pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Pro Tips:
Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal.
For extra zing, increase the amount of lemon juice and zest.
Nutritional Information:
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 0 min | Total: 10 min | Servings: 2 | Calories: ~150 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Breakfast pastries; Light snacks; Fruit salad
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
