Go Back
The allure of pasta dishes lies in their versatility and comfort, and the Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta is no exception. This delightful recipe combines the richness of cream and Parmesan cheese with the refreshing zing of lemon, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you're in search of a quick weeknight dinner or aiming to impress guests at a special occasion, this dish stands out for its ease of preparation and vibrant taste. In just 30 minutes, you can transform a handful of simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine.

Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta

Discover the deliciousness of Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta, a quick and satisfying dish that combines the richness of cream and Parmesan with the bright zing of lemon. This recipe highlights the beautiful balance of flavors, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. In just 30 minutes, learn how to create this Italian classic and explore its origins, key ingredients, and step-by-step preparation tips to impress your guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz fettuccine pasta

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

Zest of 2 large lemons

Juice of 1 large lemon

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Set the drained pasta aside.

    Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Allow it to heat for a minute, then add the finely minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can alter the flavor of the dish.

      Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously, ensuring the mixture remains smooth. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.

        Enhance with Flavors: To the creamy base, add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes (if desired for a bit of heat). Stir well to combine all the ingredients harmoniously. If the sauce appears too thick for your liking, gradually incorporate reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.

          Mix in the Pasta: Add the drained fettuccine to the creamy lemon sauce. Toss the pasta gently but thoroughly, ensuring every strand is generously coated with the sauce. Season the dish with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, adjusting to taste.

            Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Enjoy your delightful creamy zesty lemon pasta warm, reveling in the burst of flavors!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: For an elevated presentation, drizzle a little extra olive oil on top before serving and add a few whole basil leaves for color. A sprinkle of lemon zest can also brighten the dish visually.