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Creamy Lemon Pasta for Two Simple and Tasty Dish

by on November 25, 2024

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If you’re seeking a quick and tasty meal for two, creamy lemon pasta is the answer! This dish combines rich creaminess with bright lemon zest for perfect flavor balance. I’ll walk you through simple steps to make this dish shine. From ingredient swaps to serving tips, I’ve got you covered. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive in and create a meal that warms the heart!

For this creamy lemon pasta, you need the following items: - 200g fettuccine or spaghetti - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced) - 1 clove garlic, minced - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish Measuring is key for a great dish. Here’s a quick guide: - Pasta: 200 grams equals about 7 ounces. - Heavy cream: 1 cup is 240 milliliters. - Lemon: Use one medium lemon for zest and juice. - Garlic: Just one clove, minced. - Parmesan: 1/2 cup is about 50 grams when grated. - Olive oil: 1 tablespoon is 15 milliliters. - Salt and pepper: Add to taste. If you don’t have some items, here are good swaps: - Pasta: Any pasta shape works, like penne or linguine. - Heavy cream: Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce. - Parmesan cheese: Try Pecorino Romano for a different flavor. - Fresh basil: Dried basil can work in a pinch. - Garlic: Garlic powder can be used, but fresh is best. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or spaghetti to the pot. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Then, drain the pasta in a colander. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute. You want it to be fragrant, but do not let it brown. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add the juice and zest of one medium lemon. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Now, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency. Finally, add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat every strand with the creamy lemon mixture. Serve right away, garnished with fresh basil and more Parmesan if you like. To make perfect pasta, always use a large pot of water. Salt the water well; it should taste like the sea. Cook the pasta until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Save some pasta water before draining. This water helps to adjust your sauce. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to your sauce for depth. Fresh garlic brings a nice kick. The lemon zest adds brightness and aroma. You can also try fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, to boost flavor. For a richer taste, add more Parmesan cheese. Serve the pasta right away for the best flavor. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan. A sprinkle of lemon zest on top makes it look great. Pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread for a full meal. Enjoy a glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience. Pro Tips Use Fresh Lemons: Always opt for fresh lemons over bottled juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor in your sauce. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth for a delicious twist. Save Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is starchy and can help bind the sauce to the pasta, enhancing the overall texture. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to your creamy lemon pasta for added protein and flavor. {{image_2}} You can easily add proteins to this dish. Chicken or shrimp works great here. For chicken, cook diced pieces in the skillet before adding garlic. Cook until golden and fully done. For shrimp, add them after the garlic. Cook them until they turn pink. Both options boost flavor and make the meal heartier. Adding veggies makes this dish even better! Spinach adds color and nutrients. Just toss it in the sauce for a minute until it wilts. Peas are another tasty choice. They add a sweet taste and pop. Stir in frozen or fresh peas right before serving for a lovely crunch. If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the pasta. Use gluten-free fettuccine or spaghetti. Many brands offer great choices that taste good. Just make sure to check the package for cooking times. This way, you can enjoy this creamy lemon pasta without worry! To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. The creamy lemon pasta stays fresh for 2 to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container tightly. This helps keep the flavors locked in. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream to keep it moist. Stir gently until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Place the pasta in a bowl, cover it, and heat for about 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating. Freezing creamy lemon pasta is not recommended. The cream can separate and change texture. If you must freeze it, do so without the cream sauce. Cook the pasta and store it in a freezer bag. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, make the sauce fresh and combine both for the best taste. Creamy lemon pasta lasts about three days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. You can reheat it in a pan on low heat. Adding a splash of water helps revive the creaminess. Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Fettuccine or spaghetti works best, but penne or bowtie can also be great. Just cook according to package directions until al dente for the best texture. Absolutely! You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. This way, you can enjoy creamy lemon pasta while keeping it dairy-free. In this post, we covered creamy lemon pasta, from selecting key ingredients to storing leftovers. I shared tips for perfect pasta and fun variations to try. Remember, cooking is about experimenting. Feel free to adjust flavors and add your favorite proteins or veggies. This dish is not just tasty; it’s also easy to make. Try it out and enjoy a delicious meal that fits your needs.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This creamy lemon pasta can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.
  2. Fresh and Zesty: The bright flavor of lemon adds a refreshing twist that elevates the dish and makes it feel light and satisfying.
  3. Creamy Comfort: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
  4. Customizable: This recipe serves as a great base; you can easily add vegetables, proteins, or herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

For this creamy lemon pasta, you need the following items:

– 200g fettuccine or spaghetti

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced)

– 1 clove garlic, minced

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Measurement Details

Measuring is key for a great dish. Here’s a quick guide:

– Pasta: 200 grams equals about 7 ounces.

– Heavy cream: 1 cup is 240 milliliters.

– Lemon: Use one medium lemon for zest and juice.

– Garlic: Just one clove, minced.

– Parmesan: 1/2 cup is about 50 grams when grated.

– Olive oil: 1 tablespoon is 15 milliliters.

– Salt and pepper: Add to taste.

Substitutes for Key Ingredients

If you don’t have some items, here are good swaps:

– Pasta: Any pasta shape works, like penne or linguine.

– Heavy cream: Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

– Parmesan cheese: Try Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.

– Fresh basil: Dried basil can work in a pinch.

– Garlic: Garlic powder can be used, but fresh is best.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or spaghetti to the pot. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Then, drain the pasta in a colander.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute. You want it to be fragrant, but do not let it brown. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add the juice and zest of one medium lemon. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combining the Ingredients

Now, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency. Finally, add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat every strand with the creamy lemon mixture. Serve right away, garnished with fresh basil and more Parmesan if you like.

Tips & Tricks

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To make perfect pasta, always use a large pot of water. Salt the water well; it should taste like the sea. Cook the pasta until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Save some pasta water before draining. This water helps to adjust your sauce.

Enhancing the Flavor

Add a pinch of salt and pepper to your sauce for depth. Fresh garlic brings a nice kick. The lemon zest adds brightness and aroma. You can also try fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, to boost flavor. For a richer taste, add more Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta right away for the best flavor. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan. A sprinkle of lemon zest on top makes it look great. Pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread for a full meal. Enjoy a glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Lemons: Always opt for fresh lemons over bottled juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor in your sauce.
  2. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth for a delicious twist.
  3. Save Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is starchy and can help bind the sauce to the pasta, enhancing the overall texture.
  4. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to your creamy lemon pasta for added protein and flavor.

Variations

Adding Proteins (Chicken, Shrimp)

You can easily add proteins to this dish. Chicken or shrimp works great here. For chicken, cook diced pieces in the skillet before adding garlic. Cook until golden and fully done. For shrimp, add them after the garlic. Cook them until they turn pink. Both options boost flavor and make the meal heartier.

Vegetable Additions (Spinach, Peas)

Adding veggies makes this dish even better! Spinach adds color and nutrients. Just toss it in the sauce for a minute until it wilts. Peas are another tasty choice. They add a sweet taste and pop. Stir in frozen or fresh peas right before serving for a lovely crunch.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the pasta. Use gluten-free fettuccine or spaghetti. Many brands offer great choices that taste good. Just make sure to check the package for cooking times. This way, you can enjoy this creamy lemon pasta without worry!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. The creamy lemon pasta stays fresh for 2 to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container tightly. This helps keep the flavors locked in.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream to keep it moist. Stir gently until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Place the pasta in a bowl, cover it, and heat for about 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.

Freezing the Dish

Freezing creamy lemon pasta is not recommended. The cream can separate and change texture. If you must freeze it, do so without the cream sauce. Cook the pasta and store it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, make the sauce fresh and combine both for the best taste.

FAQs

How long does creamy lemon pasta last in the fridge?

Creamy lemon pasta lasts about three days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. You can reheat it in a pan on low heat. Adding a splash of water helps revive the creaminess.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Fettuccine or spaghetti works best, but penne or bowtie can also be great. Just cook according to package directions until al dente for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this pasta dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. This way, you can enjoy creamy lemon pasta while keeping it dairy-free.

In this post, we covered creamy lemon pasta, from selecting key ingredients to storing leftovers. I shared tips for perfect pasta and fun variations to try. Remember, cooking is about experimenting. Feel free to adjust flavors and add your favorite proteins or veggies. This dish is not just tasty; it’s also easy to make. Try it out and enjoy a delicious meal that fits your need

For this creamy lemon pasta, you need the following items: - 200g fettuccine or spaghetti - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced) - 1 clove garlic, minced - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish Measuring is key for a great dish. Here’s a quick guide: - Pasta: 200 grams equals about 7 ounces. - Heavy cream: 1 cup is 240 milliliters. - Lemon: Use one medium lemon for zest and juice. - Garlic: Just one clove, minced. - Parmesan: 1/2 cup is about 50 grams when grated. - Olive oil: 1 tablespoon is 15 milliliters. - Salt and pepper: Add to taste. If you don’t have some items, here are good swaps: - Pasta: Any pasta shape works, like penne or linguine. - Heavy cream: Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce. - Parmesan cheese: Try Pecorino Romano for a different flavor. - Fresh basil: Dried basil can work in a pinch. - Garlic: Garlic powder can be used, but fresh is best. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or spaghetti to the pot. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Then, drain the pasta in a colander. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute. You want it to be fragrant, but do not let it brown. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add the juice and zest of one medium lemon. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Now, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency. Finally, add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat every strand with the creamy lemon mixture. Serve right away, garnished with fresh basil and more Parmesan if you like. To make perfect pasta, always use a large pot of water. Salt the water well; it should taste like the sea. Cook the pasta until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Save some pasta water before draining. This water helps to adjust your sauce. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to your sauce for depth. Fresh garlic brings a nice kick. The lemon zest adds brightness and aroma. You can also try fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, to boost flavor. For a richer taste, add more Parmesan cheese. Serve the pasta right away for the best flavor. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan. A sprinkle of lemon zest on top makes it look great. Pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread for a full meal. Enjoy a glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience. Pro Tips Use Fresh Lemons: Always opt for fresh lemons over bottled juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor in your sauce. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth for a delicious twist. Save Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is starchy and can help bind the sauce to the pasta, enhancing the overall texture. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to your creamy lemon pasta for added protein and flavor. {{image_2}} You can easily add proteins to this dish. Chicken or shrimp works great here. For chicken, cook diced pieces in the skillet before adding garlic. Cook until golden and fully done. For shrimp, add them after the garlic. Cook them until they turn pink. Both options boost flavor and make the meal heartier. Adding veggies makes this dish even better! Spinach adds color and nutrients. Just toss it in the sauce for a minute until it wilts. Peas are another tasty choice. They add a sweet taste and pop. Stir in frozen or fresh peas right before serving for a lovely crunch. If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the pasta. Use gluten-free fettuccine or spaghetti. Many brands offer great choices that taste good. Just make sure to check the package for cooking times. This way, you can enjoy this creamy lemon pasta without worry! To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. The creamy lemon pasta stays fresh for 2 to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container tightly. This helps keep the flavors locked in. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream to keep it moist. Stir gently until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Place the pasta in a bowl, cover it, and heat for about 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating. Freezing creamy lemon pasta is not recommended. The cream can separate and change texture. If you must freeze it, do so without the cream sauce. Cook the pasta and store it in a freezer bag. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, make the sauce fresh and combine both for the best taste. Creamy lemon pasta lasts about three days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. You can reheat it in a pan on low heat. Adding a splash of water helps revive the creaminess. Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Fettuccine or spaghetti works best, but penne or bowtie can also be great. Just cook according to package directions until al dente for the best texture. Absolutely! You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. This way, you can enjoy creamy lemon pasta while keeping it dairy-free. In this post, we covered creamy lemon pasta, from selecting key ingredients to storing leftovers. I shared tips for perfect pasta and fun variations to try. Remember, cooking is about experimenting. Feel free to adjust flavors and add your favorite proteins or veggies. This dish is not just tasty; it’s also easy to make. Try it out and enjoy a delicious meal that fits your needs.

Creamy Lemon Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish with a zesty lemon flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g fettuccine or spaghetti
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but do not let it brown.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat the strands evenly with the creamy lemon mixture.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Adjust the thickness of the sauce with reserved pasta water as needed.
Keyword creamy, lemon, pasta, quick meal

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