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Easy 20-Minute Creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta

A fork lifts a generous portion of creamy lemon pasta coated in sauce, topped with grated cheese and black pepper.
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Make this restaurant-style creamy lemon pasta in under 20 minutes using simple pantry staples. This recipe achieves a silky, velvety sauce without heavy cream, relying on starchy pasta water for a bright, zesty finish perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup reserved starchy pasta water
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy cooking water. Drain the pasta.
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir well.
  4. Add about 1/2 cup of the reserved hot pasta water to the skillet. Whisk constantly until the liquid emulsifies slightly.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while tossing the pasta continuously. The residual heat and starch will create a creamy sauce. Add more pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, if the sauce seems too thick.
  7. Stir in the black pepper and red pepper flakes, if using.
  8. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

  • Use high-quality Parmesan cheese that you grate yourself for the best melting and creamiest texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth sauce formation.
  • For a brighter flavor, use the zest of one extra lemon.
  • If you want to add protein, toss in cooked chicken breast during the final step.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/creamy-lemon-pasta-recipe-easy-20-minute/