Creamy Lemon Pasta
This Creamy Lemon Pasta features delicate angel hair pasta tossed in a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce, offering a bright and comforting dish that is quick and easy to prepare.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz angel hair pasta (Capellini) delicate and thin, perfect for creamy sauces
- 2 tablespoons butter adds richness and depth to the sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced, infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor
- ½ lemon juice and zest, brings brightness and a fresh citrus note
- ¼ cup heavy cream (double cream in the UK), gives the sauce its creamy texture
- 1 teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper adds a gentle heat and depth
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese offers a savory, umami kick
- ¼ cup parsley chopped, adds a fresh, herbaceous finish
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2 to 3 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the lemon juice and zest. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 30 seconds to release the lemon’s bright flavors. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the cream to warm for 2 to 3 minutes without boiling.
- Add the salt and ground black pepper to the sauce, stirring well. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted smoothly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat every strand in the creamy lemon sauce. Cook together for another minute to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the pasta. Toss gently and serve immediately. Optionally, add more parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil on top.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Sauté Pan
Notes
Use fresh lemons for best flavor and watch the pasta carefully as angel hair cooks quickly. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Grate parmesan fresh for better melt. For lighter sauce, substitute half of the cream with milk. Variations include adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, vegetables such as asparagus or peas, or swapping herbs and cheeses. Vegan versions can use plant-based butter, coconut or cashew cream, and nutritional yeast.