If you are looking for a delightful dish that sings with bright, zesty flavors balanced by creamy, comforting richness, you have found your match in this Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the freshness of lemon combined with the deep, aromatic notes of garlic, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. This recipe is not only a quick and easy weeknight winner but also impressive enough to serve guests when you want to bring a little sunshine to the table. Every bite feels like a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in a beautiful harmony.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by how straightforward this Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe is; every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the vibrant and comforting flavor profile. From the brightness of fresh lemon to the warmth of red pepper flakes, these components form the backbone of a dish that is both memorable and satisfying.
- Long pasta (16 ounces): Choose linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine for ideal texture and sauce absorption.
- Large lemon (zested and juiced): Adds fresh citrus brightness that lifts the whole dish.
- Kosher salt (5 tablespoons for pasta water, plus 2 teaspoons for seasoning): Enhances all flavors and seasons the pasta perfectly.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Provides creamy richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
- White wine (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle acidity and depth, complementing the lemon perfectly.
- Chicken broth (1/4 cup): Adds savory notes to balance the cream and citrus.
- Pasta water (1 cup, reserved): Helps marry the sauce ingredients and gives it that silky finish.
- Olive oil (4-5 tablespoons): Used to sauté garlic, bringing out its flavor without burning.
- Red pepper flakes (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
- Garlic (5-6 cloves, minced): The aromatic star that infuses the dish with warmth and complexity.
- Fresh basil (3-4 tablespoons, minced): Finishing herb that adds freshness and color.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Balances the flavors with a mild spiciness.
- Fresh parmesan (for serving): Adds umami richness and a nutty topping to complete the dish.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the 5 tablespoons of kosher salt—this flavors the pasta from within. Toss in your long pasta and cook for about 5 minutes, aiming for it to be just shy of fully cooked, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. Once drained, rinse the pasta with cold water to halt its cooking and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Deglaze
While your pasta is resting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and gently cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden without burning. Next, pour in the chicken broth and white wine, stirring occasionally as you let the mixture reduce for 4 to 5 minutes. This step enriches the sauce base with savory and bright notes.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer the Sauce
It’s time for the star ingredients: add the lemon juice, lemon zest, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring this vibrant mixture to a gentle simmer before introducing the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Toss the pasta in the sauce, letting it cook and thicken for about 7 to 8 minutes. This process allows the pasta to absorb all those delicious flavors while the sauce attains a silky consistency.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened and the pasta is perfectly tender, stir in the chopped fresh basil. Just before serving, crack some black pepper over the top and generously sprinkle freshly grated parmesan. The basil adds a refreshing herbal contrast, while the parmesan creates a wonderful savory finish to the dish.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe elevates both presentation and taste. Fresh basil leaves scattered on top add a pop of green freshness. A final sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a generous handful of grated parmesan cheese bring layered flavors and a touch of elegance. For an extra zing, add a few thin ribbons of lemon zest or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to finish the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This lemony and creamy pasta is versatile, pairing well with a variety of sides. A crisp mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette keeps your meal light and refreshing. Roasted garlic bread or a crusty baguette provides the perfect vehicle for scooping up every last bit of sauce. If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or seared shrimp complement the flavors exceptionally well, making your meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe in beautiful shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and vibrant colors. Garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh basil and a lemon wedge for an interactive element that allows diners to add extra citrus zing if they wish. For a fun, casual dinner, pile the pasta high in family-style dishes, encouraging everyone to dig in and share the flavorful joy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it tasting fresh, try to reserve some fresh basil and parmesan for garnishing after reheating. The sauce might thicken during storage, but a splash of water or broth stirred in before reheating will bring back its silky texture.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce separately if needed. Freeze pasta in portioned airtight containers or bags, and keep the sauce in a sealed container. When ready to enjoy, thaw both slowly in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop with a bit of liquid to refresh the creamy consistency. Keep in mind that fresh basil and parmesan are best added after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding small amounts of pasta water or broth to loosen the sauce as it heats. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure the sauce stays smooth. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the sauce to separate or the pasta to dry out. Once warmed through, top with fresh basil and parmesan to mimic the fresh-cooked experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While long pasta like linguine or spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to experiment with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free variants. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and reserve pasta water as usual to help with the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk, which adds a subtle different flavor but maintains creaminess.
Is the white wine essential in the sauce?
Wine adds lovely acidity and depth, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, substitute with extra chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice. This keeps the bright and savory balance intact.
How spicy is the pasta with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the lemon or cream. You can easily adjust the amount to your spice tolerance or omit it entirely for a milder dish.
Can I make this Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe vegan?
With a few swaps, yes! Replace heavy cream with a plant-based cream, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and substitute parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. Don’t forget that the olive oil and fresh herbs will keep the dish bursting with flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe has a special way of turning simple ingredients into something magical that feels both fresh and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it brings a burst of bright flavors alongside comforting creaminess that delights every palate. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen as it did in mine.
Print
Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A vibrant and creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta combining the fresh zest and juice of lemon with a rich garlic-infused sauce, elevated by white wine, chicken broth, and fresh basil. This elegant yet easy-to-make pasta dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or special occasion and serves six.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces long pasta
- 5 tablespoons kosher salt (for pasta water)
- 1 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
Sauce
- 4–5 tablespoons olive oil
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing
- 3–4 tablespoons fresh basil, minced
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 5 tablespoons of kosher salt and then add the long pasta. Cook for 5 minutes, knowing the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce. Drain the pasta and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Deglaze: In a large skillet, heat 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, allowing the mixture to reduce for 4-5 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
- Add Cream, Lemon, and Spices: Stir in the lemon juice and zest, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer to combine the flavors.
- Finish Cooking the Pasta in the Sauce: Add the partially cooked pasta and reserved pasta water into the skillet. Toss occasionally and cook for about 7-8 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens to coat the noodles beautifully.
- Add Fresh Basil and Serve: Stir in the minced fresh basil, adjust seasoning with extra black pepper if desired, and top generously with freshly grated parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water before draining; the starch helps thicken and bind the sauce.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Freshly grated parmesan works best for topping; pre-grated often lacks flavor and melts differently.
