Irresistible Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe in 20 Min

Imagine a cozy evening at home, a warm breeze floating through an open window, and the comforting aroma of garlic and lemon wafting from your kitchen. This is the perfect scene for enjoying a plate of Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta, a dish that’s effortlessly elegant yet delightfully simple. Whether it’s a special date night or a casual family dinner, this recipe brings a touch of charm to any occasion.

Inspired by traditional Italian cuisine, Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta is a culinary reflection of my travels through coastal towns where citrus trees blossom under the sun and fresh seafood is abundant. This dish celebrates the vibrant flavors of lemon and the savory depth of garlic, combined with the richness of butter, creating a delightful experience for your palate. What makes this recipe stand out is its quick preparation time, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta is a keeper for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, it’s a one-pan wonder, making it perfect for those who appreciate minimal cleanup after cooking. The combination of bright lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and creamy butter creates a flavor profile that excites and comforts simultaneously. Plus, it’s versatile—great as a base recipe that you can modify with various proteins or vegetables, making it suitable for all dietary preferences.

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

The taste of Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta is a symphony of flavors. The tangy brightness of lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, while the garlic adds a savory depth that makes each bite unforgettable. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that feels both refreshing and comforting, making it ideal for any season. Each mouthful offers a delightful contrast of creamy and zesty, leaving you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta (spaghetti or linguine, 8 oz): The foundation of the dish; the long strands help trap the rich sauce and bursting flavors.
• Butter (1/2 cup): Adds a creamy texture and depth of flavor, making the dish velvety and luxurious.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Enhances the richness while offering a fruity undertone that balances the dish well.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Brings a robust flavor that complements the lemon perfectly and elevates the overall experience.
• Lemon juice (from 1 large lemon): Provides brightness; the acidity cuts through the richness of the butter.
• Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Adds an aromatic touch, enhancing the lemony goodness in the dish.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): A finishing touch that adds richness and umami, taking the dish to the next level.

Optional Additions

Feel free to personalize your Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta with these tasty ideas:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Incorporate some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrients and color.
• Include grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier meal.

Special Garnishes

Garnishing can really elevate your Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta:

• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of color and extra flavor.
• Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top before serving for that cheesy goodness.
• Add lemon wedges on the side for a decorative touch and additional brightness when serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add Lemon: Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for about a minute.
4. Toss the Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat the noodles in the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Season: Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
6. Serve: Remove from heat, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh herbs and an additional sprinkle of cheese. Serve immediately.

Recipe Variations

This Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta recipe is extremely versatile. You can switch things up based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences:

• For a creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the butter sauce.
• Try substituting the pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
• If you’re looking for a vegan option, use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

Serving and Storage Tips

This dish is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, here are some tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, add a bit of reserved pasta water or olive oil in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

Helpful Tips

• Always reserve some pasta water; it’s perfect for adjusting the sauce consistency.
• Consider using fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor impact.
• Don’t overcook the garlic; it should be golden and fragrant, not burnt.

Special Equipment

To make this Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta, you will need:

• A large pot for boiling pasta.
• A skillet for sautéing; a non-stick option is great for this dish.
• A pasta strainer to drain the cooked pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that maintain texture.

Can I add protein to Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed scallops make excellent additions that pair beautifully with the flavors in this dish.

How can I change the flavor profile of the dish?

You can incorporate herbs like thyme or oregano for a different twist, or swap the lemon for lime for a slightly different citrus kick.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting sticky?

Make sure to toss the hot pasta immediately with the sauce while it’s still warm. Using reserved pasta water also helps to keep the dish moist.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. With its bright flavors and comforting warmth, it’s the perfect dish to create cherished moments with family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own spin, you’ll surely delight in every bite. Share your experiences and adaptations in the comments—let’s make cooking a shared adventure!

Irresistible Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe in 20 Min

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

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Description

Whip up this irresistible Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta in just 20 min Perfect for a quick dinner bursting with flavor and simplicity Enjoy today

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

8 oz Pasta (spaghetti or linguine)

1/2 cup Butter

2 tbsp Olive oil

4 cloves Garlic, minced

Juice from 1 large Lemon

Zest from 1 Lemon

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

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Instructions

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for about a minute.

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat the noodles in the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.

Remove from heat, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh herbs and an additional sprinkle of cheese. Serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 servings
• Calories: 450 calories
• Sugar: 1 gram
• Fat: 24 grams
• Saturated Fat: 24 grams
• Carbohydrates: 48 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 14 grams