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lemon pasta

lemon pasta

This creamy lemon pasta is your go-to comfort food: fast, flavorful, and made with pantry staples. Bright, rich, and endlessly adaptable.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine Italian-Inspired
Servings 2 plates
Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pot
  • Zester

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 200 g spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 large lemon zest and juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 100 ml heavy cream
  • 40 g Parmesan cheese grated
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Enhancements

  • Red pepper flakes a pinch, for heat
  • Fresh basil or parsley chopped
  • Cooked chicken or shrimp optional protein
  • Peas or baby spinach for added color and nutrients
HOMECOOKIN Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart Digital Programmable Slow Cookers with Timer
Ninja Air Fryer with Air Crisp | 5 QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of Fries | 4-in-1 Pro
Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1
Cuisinart Stand Mixer, 12 Speed, 5.5 Quart Stainless Steel Bowl, Chef’s Whisk, Mixing Paddle, Dough Hook, Splash Guard w/ Pour Spout, White Linen, SM-50NAS, Manual

Instructions
 

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  • In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Let it bubble for 1 minute.
  • Add the cream and stir to blend into a smooth sauce.
  • Lower heat and gradually stir in Parmesan until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Toss in the pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir until coated and glossy.
  • Garnish with extra Parmesan, herbs, or chili flakes before serving.

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Notes

For a lighter version, skip the cream and use more olive oil with pasta water. Meyer lemons offer a slightly sweeter flavor. Add cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein boost, or stir in greens like spinach for added nutrition.
Keyword lemon pasta