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Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the bright, invigorating flavors of lemon with a rich, creamy sauce. This dish tantalizes the taste buds with its refreshing acidity and velvety texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for various occasions. The use of lemon in culinary applications has long been celebrated, bringing a burst of brightness to both savory and sweet dishes. In pasta, the citrusy notes of lemon not only elevate the overall flavor profile but also provide a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the sauce, creating a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and uplifting.

Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta

Experience the delightful burst of flavors with Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta! This quick and elegant dish blends the rich creaminess of a classic sauce with the refreshing zing of lemon, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests with this delicious pasta recipe that's both comforting and vibrant!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

Zest of 2 large lemons

Juice of 1 large lemon

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your preference)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Extra lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the remaining water and set the pasta aside.

    Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.

      Add Cream and Zest: Reduce the heat to low and carefully pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Incorporate the lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, along with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.

        Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy lemon sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure it’s fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until your desired creaminess is achieved.

          Stir in Cheese: While tossing the pasta, gradually sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

            Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for those who desire an extra burst of citrus flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings