Zesty lemon pasta with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs

How to make lemon pasta recipe in 20 minutes!

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Imagine a bright and refreshing lemon pasta recipe ready in just 20 minutes. This easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s made with simple ingredients like lemon zest, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

You can create a delicious homemade lemon pasta that everyone will love. With a total preparation and cook time of 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

This lemon pasta recipe serves 2 people and needs under 10 ingredients. You’ll need 8 ounces of spaghetti, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 2 cloves of garlic. The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal cooking time, making it a great option for a quick and easy dinner.

Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing meal or a comforting and satisfying dish, this lemon pasta recipe is a great choice.

Why This Quick Lemon Pasta Recipe Will Become Your Go-To Meal

This quick lemon pasta recipe is great for busy weeknights. It’s ready in just 25 minutes. It serves 6 people, perfect for families or small gatherings.

The recipe is easy to make and saves time. It uses simple ingredients like spaghetti, butter, and frozen garlic cubes. The dish has a bright, citrusy flavor with a creamy sauce.

Some key benefits of this recipe include:

  • High protein content: 15g per serving
  • Good source of fiber: 3g per serving
  • Low saturated fat content: 7g per serving

This recipe is nutritious and balanced. It’s a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Its quick cooking time and simple ingredients make it perfect for busy nights.

NutrientPer Serving
Calories408 kcal
Carbohydrates60g
Protein15g
Fat12g

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Lemon Pasta

To make a delicious lemon pasta, you need a few key ingredients. You’ll need high-quality spaghetti, unsalted butter, fresh lemons, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and fresh herbs. Cook the spaghetti al dente. Use the butter and lemon zest to make a rich, creamy lemon pasta sauce.

Here are the essential ingredients you will need:

  • 12 ounces of pasta (such as spaghetti or pappardelle)
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1 to 2 lemons, depending on your desired level of lemon flavor
  • 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
  • Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil

A vegetarian lemon pasta recipe is perfect for a quick meal. You can add your favorite veggies, like cherry tomatoes or spinach. With these ingredients, you can make a creamy lemon pasta dish that’s both tasty and fulfilling.

IngredientQuantity
Pasta12 ounces
Unsalted butter2 tablespoons
Lemons1 to 2
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese1/2 cup
Fresh herbschopped, for garnish

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make a tasty homemade lemon pasta, you’ll need some key kitchen tools. Start by getting a large pot, a big skillet, and a colander. These items will help you cook the spaghetti and make the lemon pasta sauce.

Having the right utensils is important for cooking lemon pasta. You’ll need a large pot for the spaghetti, a skillet for the lemon sauce, and a colander to drain and rinse the spaghetti.

Must-Have Utensils

  • Large pot with a lid
  • Large skillet
  • Colander

Optional Tools for Enhanced Results

  • Food processor
  • Garlic press
  • Microplane grater

With these tools, you can make a delicious homemade lemon pasta. The secret to a great lemon pasta is using fresh ingredients and cooking the spaghetti just right. By following this recipe and using the right tools, you can enjoy a tasty meal in just 20 minutes.

Preparing Your Ingredients the Right Way

To make a delicious simple lemon pasta dish, start by preparing your ingredients right. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips. Cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente. Grate the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

Also, zest the lemon and squeeze the juice. Make sure to remove any seeds or pulp. This way, your dish will be flavorful and balanced.

For a quick lemon pasta recipe, have all ingredients ready before cooking. Measure out the olive oil, lemon juice, and grated cheese. This ensures your dish is the best lemon pasta recipe you’ve ever made.

lemon pasta recipe

Here are some tips for preparing your ingredients:
* Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
* Measure ingredients accurately to avoid seasoning mistakes.
* Don’t overcook the spaghetti to keep it from becoming mushy.
* Use different cheeses, like Parmigiano Reggiano and provolone, for depth and complexity.

IngredientQuantity
Spaghetti8 ¾ oz (approximately 250g)
Lemons3 lemons (for infusion) plus one small flat teaspoon of lemon zest
Provolone (or other cheese)3 ½ oz (approximately 100g)

The Best Pasta Types for This Recipe

Choosing the right pasta is key for a tasty lemon pasta dish. For a light and tangy sauce, pick a pasta that holds it well. Spaghetti, linguine, and tagliatelle are top choices. They offer a perfect mix of texture and flavor, letting the lemon sauce coat the pasta evenly.

Deciding between fresh or dried pasta is important. Fresh pasta is more delicate but pricier and harder to find. Dried pasta is easier to get and still delicious. It’s all about what you prefer and what’s available.

  • Fettuccine: a flat, wide noodle that pairs well with creamy sauces
  • Angel hair: a very thin, delicate pasta that works well with light, oily sauces
  • Bucatini: a thick, hollow spaghetti-like pasta that holds onto chunky sauces
Pasta TypeDescriptionPairing Suggestions
SpaghettiLong, thin, cylindrical shapeLemon sauce, tomato sauce, meatballs
LinguineLong, flat, and narrow shapeLight, oily sauces, seafood, pesto
TagliatelleFlat, wide noodle shapeCreamy sauces, meat ragu, mushroom sauces

Step-by-Step Lemon Pasta Recipe Instructions

To make a tasty quick lemon pasta, just follow a few easy steps. Start by cooking 1 pound of spaghetti in boiling water until it’s al dente. While the spaghetti cooks, prepare the lemon sauce. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a skillet. Add the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and ¾ cup of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

Here are the key ingredients and steps to make the best lemon pasta recipe:

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 lemon zest
  • ¾ cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese

After the spaghetti is done, drain it and add it to the skillet. Toss until the spaghetti is coated with the sauce. This simple lemon pasta is now ready to serve. You can also add garlic or chicken broth to make it your own.

quick lemon pasta

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeServings
10 minutes20 minutes30 minutes4

Creating the Perfect Lemon Sauce

To make a delicious lemon pasta, you need a perfect lemon sauce. This sauce is key to your creamy lemon pasta. It can make all the difference in taste. Cook garlic and lemon zest in butter until fragrant, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

Your vegetarian lemon pasta recipe needs bright and citrusy flavors. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can make the sauce bitter. Also, don’t add too much cream, as it can make the sauce too rich. Use ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese for a creamy sauce.

Achieving the Ideal Consistency

Getting the right consistency for your lemon sauce is important. Cook the garlic and lemon zest in butter until fragrant, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The sauce should be creamy and rich, with a balance of bright and citrusy flavors.

Common Sauce Mistakes to Avoid

There are common mistakes to avoid when making your lemon sauce. Overcooking the garlic can make the sauce bitter. Adding too much cream can make it too rich and heavy. Avoid these mistakes to create a delicious and creamy lemon pasta sauce.

Here is a simple recipe for a lemon sauce for your creamy lemon pasta:

IngredientQuantity
Garlic2 cloves
Lemon zest1 tablespoon
Butter2 tablespoons
Heavy cream½ cup
Parmesan cheese½ cup

Follow this recipe and avoid common mistakes to create a delicious and creamy lemon sauce. It will complement your vegetarian lemon pasta recipe and make a great creamy lemon pasta dish.

Variations and Add-ins to Try

When making homemade lemon pasta, you can get creative. You can change this easy lemon pasta recipe to fit your taste. Adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil can make it taste better and look great.

Try adding protein like cooked chicken or shrimp, or diced veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. You can also use different cheeses like goat cheese or feta. Mixing these ingredients can create a special flavor. For instance, adding sautéed spinach and cherry tomatoes can make your lemon pasta recipe both healthy and tasty.

  • Adding cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein
  • Incorporating diced vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers
  • Using different types of cheese like goat cheese or feta
  • Experimenting with various combinations of herbs and spices

Exploring these variations and add-ins can help you make a unique and tasty homemade lemon pasta dish. It will be tailored to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishing Tips

When serving your simple lemon pasta, aim for a dish that looks good and tastes great. Serve it hot with chopped fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese on top. This adds flavor and color to your plate.

For a quick lemon pasta, consider adding lemon wedges on the side. This lets everyone add more lemon juice to their liking. Try making a nest of spaghetti, then top it with lemon sauce and herbs.

Temperature Recommendations

The pasta should be hot but not too hot. Aim for a temperature just above room temperature. This makes it comfortable to eat.

Plating Techniques

Here are some plating techniques you can try:

  • Create a nest of spaghetti on the plate
  • Top the pasta with the lemon sauce and some chopped herbs
  • Add some extra lemon wedges on the side
  • Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta

By following these tips, you can elevate your simple lemon pasta. Whether it’s a quick or elaborate dish, these suggestions will impress your guests.

IngredientQuantity
Spaghetti12 ounces
Olive oil2 tablespoons
Butter2 tablespoons
Garlic4 large cloves, minced
Heavy cream1/4 cup
Lemon1 large lemon (juice and zest)
Fresh basilapproximately 1 1/2 cups, thinly sliced
Parmesan cheese2 ounces, freshly grated (approximately 2/3 cup)

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

When storing your lemon pasta recipe, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and flavorful. To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop for a quick meal.

To reheat, add water or cream to loosen the sauce. This is key for homemade lemon pasta, which is more delicate. These tips ensure your lemon pasta recipe stays tasty and moist for days.

lemon pasta recipe

  • Reheat the pasta over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
  • Consider adding some chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil, to give the dish a fresh twist.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your lemon pasta recipe for days. It’s a great example of an easy lemon pasta dish. It’s perfect for a homemade lemon pasta meal because it’s easy to prepare and reheat.

Conclusion

This creamy lemon pasta recipe is a delightful and easy dish. It will soon become a favorite in your home. The delicious lemon pasta flavors and creamy sauce make it a hit. It’s perfect for both vegetarian lemon pasta recipe fans and meat lovers.

The lemon’s bright and citrusy taste pairs well with the pasta. It creates a delicious harmony that will please your taste buds.

Looking for a quick and tasty meal or a dish to impress guests? This lemon pasta recipe is ideal. It takes just 20 minutes to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. You can enjoy a high-quality dish at home.

So, try this creamy lemon pasta and enjoy its delightful flavors. It’s a satisfying pasta dish that you’ll love.

FAQ

What are the essential ingredients for making this lemon pasta recipe?

You’ll need high-quality spaghetti, unsalted butter, and fresh lemons. Also, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and fresh herbs are key.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this lemon pasta?

You’ll need a large pot, a skillet, and a colander. Tools like a food processor, garlic press, and microplane grater can help too.

How do I properly prepare the ingredients for this lemon pasta recipe?

Cook the spaghetti al dente. Grate the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Zest and juice the lemons, removing seeds and pulp.

What type of pasta is best for this lemon pasta recipe?

Spaghetti is the best choice for this recipe. It balances texture and flavor well. You can also use linguine or tagliatelle.

How do I make the perfect lemon sauce for this pasta dish?

Cook garlic and lemon zest in butter until fragrant. Then, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The sauce should be creamy and rich, with a good balance of flavors.

Can I customize this lemon pasta recipe to my preferences?

Yes, you can add chopped fresh herbs, cooked chicken or shrimp, or diced vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers.

How should I serve and garnish the lemon pasta dish?

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with herbs and Parmesan cheese. Add extra lemon wedges on the side for more juice.

How can I store and reheat any leftover lemon pasta?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a bit of water or cream to prevent drying.
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