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Creamy Lemon Pasta

This Creamy Lemon Pasta is the perfect balance of tangy lemon, creamy sauce, and fresh herbs. The brightness of lemon zest and juice cuts through the richness of Parmesan and heavy cream, creating a dish that’s light yet satisfying. With the warmth of garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes, this pasta will quickly become a go-to for a cozy weeknight meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a fast, flavorful dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, pasta
Cuisine Italian

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite type)
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 3-4 Garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-2 tsp Red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
  • ¼ cup Fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup Fresh basil, chopped
  • Juice and zest of 2 lemons
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • ½ cup Heavy cream

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta
    Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
  • Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
    Heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  • Create the Lemon-Cream Sauce
    Add the juice and zest of two lemons to the skillet, stirring to combine. Then, pour in the heavy cream and butter, stirring until the butter melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the Pasta and Cheese
    Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese until it melts and blends into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  • Season and Garnish
    Stir in the fresh parsley and basil, then season with black pepper to taste. Toss the pasta one more time to ensure everything is well coated.
  • Serve
    Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, and basil for a beautiful, vibrant presentation. Enjoy your creamy, zesty lemon pasta!
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