Lemon Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients
• Bright, fresh lemon flavor balanced by creamy Parmesan
• Garlic and white wine add depth and complexity
• Perfectly light yet satisfying for any meal
• Versatile with any pasta shape you prefer

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 9 ounces pasta of your choice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ¼ cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and combined.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
7. Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce.
8. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 3-4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken for protein
• Toss in fresh spinach or arugula for added greens
• Substitute lemon juice with lemon zest for more intense citrus flavor
• Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast to make it dairy-free
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use any pasta shape for this recipe?

Yes, this dish works well with spaghetti, linguine, penne, or your favorite pasta shape.

What if I don’t have dry white wine?

You can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water with a splash of white wine vinegar.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components in advance and combine before serving.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic on medium to low heat and stir frequently to avoid burning.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, replace butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed zucchini, peas, or asparagus would complement the flavors well.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

Add a splash of cream or increase the amount of Parmesan cheese.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the sauce texture may change upon thawing.

Conclusion

Lemon Parmesan Pasta is a bright, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines fresh citrus notes with the richness of Parmesan and garlic. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal any day of the week.

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