If you're searching for a dish that combines the richness of creamy Parmesan with a zesty lemon twist, look no further! This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta is not just another weeknight meal; it's a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a delightful pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it's a cozy dinner at home or an impressive dish for guests. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 12 oz of pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine), 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 lemon (zested and juiced), salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water. This will enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a small amount of butter to the skillet.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine with the garlic, allowing it to warm through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss again to combine all the flavors.
- Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your creamy lemon Parmesan pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While spaghetti or fettuccine works beautifully, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes. Just ensure it can hold onto that creamy sauce!
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: To achieve the perfect al dente texture, be sure to follow the package instructions closely. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly after draining.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh garlic. The difference in taste is remarkable!
- Balance the Creaminess: If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of reserved pasta water. This will help create a silky, smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Zest It Up: When adding lemon zest, make sure to use a microplane for the finest zest, which will release more essential oils and enhance the flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the fresh parsley! It adds a pop of color and freshness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. If you need to prepare it in advance, consider keeping the pasta and sauce separate until just before serving to maintain the creamy texture.
- Pairing Suggestions: Enhance your meal by serving the pasta with a crisp side salad or some warm garlic bread for a complete dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
