Description
Simple Lemon Parmesan Pasta is a fresh, zesty pasta dish made with minimal ingredients. Featuring bright lemon, savory garlic, and salty Parmesan, it’s light, creamy, and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for an easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or preferred shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
- Chopped parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lemon zest and lemon juice. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon mixture.
- Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and gradually stir in reserved pasta water until a creamy sauce forms.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for protein.
- Mix in veggies like spinach, peas, or asparagus.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of cream or milk.
- Red pepper flakes or Dijon mustard add extra flavor depth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
