Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta That Will Brighten Your Day

This Lemon Garlic Pasta recipe combines creamy richness with vibrant lemon flavor, making it a perfect quick meal.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Sauces

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons Butter Adds a luscious richness; try olive oil for a lighter twist.
4 cloves Garlic Infuses the sauce with fragrant depth; fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor.
2 tablespoons Flour Serves as a thickening agent; can be omitted if using heavy cream instead.
1 cup Half and Half Creates a creamy texture; substitute with whole milk for fewer calories.
to taste Salt Essential seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
to taste Pepper Essential seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
1 each Lemon Juice Brings bright acidity and freshness; fresh lemons are recommended.
1 each Lemon Zest Brings bright acidity and freshness; fresh lemons are recommended.
½ cup Parmesan Cheese Adds umami and creaminess; use nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
Parsley Garnishes the dish with a touch of color; optional if you're in a pinch.

Optional Add-Ons

Cayenne Pepper For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch for added heat.
Fresh Herbs (Basil or Thyme) Incorporate these alongside parsley for an aromatic touch.

Equipment

12-inch non-stick skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Garlic Pasta

Melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a 12-inch non-stick skillet for about 1-2 minutes until foamy.
Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden, not browned.
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until the mixture thickens slightly.
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of half and half, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, allowing the sauce to thicken within 1-2 minutes.
Reduce the heat slightly and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 1-2 minutes, stirring gently to eliminate lumps.
Remove from heat and whisk in the juice and zest of one lemon and ½ cup of grated Parmesan until fully melted.
Taste and adjust seasonings, then serve the warm sauce over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of liquid to maintain creaminess.

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