Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta
- The Perfect Balance of Creamy and Tangy
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
- Tips for the Best Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta
- Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
This Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta is a quick and delicious dish with a velvety sauce, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients like garlic, lemon, and Parmesan, this pasta is packed with flavor while being effortless to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a date night, it’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta
At Betty Cooks, we believe in making flavorful meals with minimal effort. This creamy lemon garlic pasta is the perfect example! The creamy texture combined with the zesty brightness of lemon creates a mouthwatering dish that feels gourmet but is easy to whip up in just 25 minutes.
The Perfect Balance of Creamy and Tangy
The key to this pasta dish is striking the right balance between creaminess and tanginess. The heavy cream provides a rich, silky texture, while the fresh lemon zest and juice add a refreshing burst of acidity. The result? A restaurant-quality meal made effortlessly in your own kitchen.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
You don’t need fancy ingredients to make a show-stopping dish. This easy creamy lemon garlic pasta uses kitchen staples like garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, and fresh lemon. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
Tips for the Best Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta
- Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice lacks the same bright, fresh taste. Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Save some pasta water: The starchy pasta water helps create a smoother, creamier sauce.
- Don’t overcook the garlic: Sauté just until fragrant to prevent it from turning bitter.
- Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a minute or two.
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
While this creamy lemon garlic pasta is a star on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta. You can also serve it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on low heat and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon make excellent additions to this dish.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
For more delicious recipes, visit Betty Cooks and explore our collection of easy and flavorful dishes.
Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Toss in cooked spaghetti and mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
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