Lemon Pasta Recipe

[Kitty]

have this pasta dish, you'll never regret!

Ingredients:​

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon slices or extra zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions:​

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned.
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
   • Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cream is warmed through.
   • Add the lemon juice and lemon zest, and stir to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. If the sauce needs more lemon flavor, add a little more lemon juice or zest.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra lemon slices or zest if desired.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the lemon pasta immediately while hot.

Tips:​

• Adjust Creaminess: For a richer sauce, use heavy cream. For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or whole milk.
• Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon for extra protein.
• Veggies: Consider adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas for added texture and flavor.

This lemon pasta is wonderfully versatile and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the fresh and tangy flavors!