Description
Parmesan Lemon Pasta is the kind of easy recipe I make when I want something fresh, creamy, and full of flavor without spending all night in the kitchen. The silky Parmesan coating, bright lemon zest, and buttery garlic finish make this a perfect quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, and comforting meal for busy weeknights. It works beautifully for dinner ideas, simple lunch leftovers, or cozy food ideas when I want a satisfying bowl of pasta that feels both light and indulgent.
Ingredients
12 ounces spaghetti
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water, plus more as needed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
extra Parmesan for serving
extra lemon zest for serving
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter with the olive oil.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant.
4. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.
5. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon butter mixture.
6. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese a little at a time, tossing continuously.
7. Add the reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
8. Season with salt and black pepper, then toss again to combine.
9. Finish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and extra lemon zest before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
Add the pasta water slowly while tossing so the sauce stays silky instead of turning thick or clumpy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 465
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: parmesan lemon pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, weeknight pasta, lemon pasta, creamy pasta, dinner ideas, food ideas