Description

This Lemon Butter Pasta Light is a quick, vibrant Italian-inspired dish that combines zesty lemon, buttery richness, and garlic for a bright yet comforting meal. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner, it features tender pasta tossed in a light lemon-butter sauce with a hint of red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese, garnished with fresh parsley. It’s an easy vegetarian pasta recipe that can be elevated with optional proteins or vegetables, making it versatile and delicious.

Ingredients

Pasta

12 ounces spaghetti or linguine

Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Finishing

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta thoroughly.
Prepare Sauce Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter together with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
Add Lemon and Spices: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice into the skillet. If using, add the red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, and give the sauce a good stir to combine all flavors.
Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the lemon butter sauce. Toss well to coat each strand evenly in the flavorful sauce.
Finish Sauce: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, then gradually pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time while stirring constantly. This helps the sauce adhere to the pasta, creating a light and glossy finish.
Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.

Notes

Add sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or steamed vegetables for a more filling meal.
For extra brightness, finish with a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.