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Quick Creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta

Close-up of a white bowl filled with delicious Creamy Lemon Pasta, topped generously with fresh chopped parsley.
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Make this bright and zesty pasta dish with a silky sauce in under 25 minutes. It is a simple, satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir constantly until the mixture is warm.
  4. Remove the skillet from the heat. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the silky sauce. Add a splash more pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
  • If you prefer a tangier sauce, increase the lemon juice by one teaspoon.
  • You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a slight warmth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://magazinemeal.com/creamy-lemon-pasta/