Delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta

Lemon garlic butter pasta is a delightful and quick-to-make dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course for a simple yet elegant meal. The rich flavors of lemon, garlic, and parmesan cheese come together to create a satisfying and flavorful experience. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or as part of a light lunch menu.

The recipe is straightforward with just five main ingredients: pasta, unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You will need approximately 10 minutes to prepare the dish, and it takes about 10 more minutes for the pasta to cook properly. The serving size depends on your appetite; this recipe serves four people generously.

Ingredients

200 grams of fusilli or any preferred type of pasta
4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter, softened
1 large lemon, juiced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Instructions

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen type of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
In the meantime, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it gently toast for about one minute; be careful not to burn it.
Once the pasta is done cooking, drain it well but reserve about half a cup of pasta water. This will help thicken your sauce and add body.
Transfer the hot pasta into the skillet with garlic and stir thoroughly. Add in lemon juice followed by remaining butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to combine all ingredients until everything is well incorporated, making sure the sauce coats each strand of pasta evenly.
If necessary, add some reserved pasta water while stirring gently. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve immediately in individual bowls or plates. Garnish with additional parmesan for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier version, add 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream to the mixture before adding the pasta and cheese.
To make it spicier, add some red pepper flakes or crushed chili flakes while cooking the garlic.
If you prefer less acidity from the lemon, use only half of its juice when making the sauce.

This dish pairs wonderfully well with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar, or a side of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the tasty sauce. It also works great as leftovers; any remaining pasta can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

Health Benefits

Lemon garlic butter pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that contribute towards maintaining good health. Lemons are rich in vitamin C which aids in boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin. Garlic has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reducing blood pressure and enhancing cardiovascular health when consumed regularly in moderation.

Remember, while enjoying this dish for its delicious taste, it is essential to balance it with other nutritious foods throughout your daily diet. Overindulgence in rich sauces may lead to higher caloric intake, so portion control remains key especially if you are looking after your figure or have specific dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

Lemon garlic butter pasta offers an easy yet sophisticated culinary experience suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. Its simplicity allows for creative variations that suit different palates and occasions. Whether served hot or cold, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.