Lemon Pasta

If you're searching for a delicious weeknight family meal that doesn't take hours to get on the table, this simple and crowd-pleasing lemon pasta fits the bill. It's a quick 30-minute recipe that uses familiar pantry staples and is a hit with kids and adults. Fresh lemon juice and zest add major zing and savory parmesan cheese makes a creamy, satisfying sauce. Not to mention, it's one of the easiest one-pot meals ever. The pasta cooks directly in your citrusy sauce to maximize flavor and minimize clean-up.

What is lemon pasta?

Known in Italy as pasta al limone, lemon pasta is a staple dish in the citrus-producing regions of Amalfi, Sorrento, and Sicily. Similar in texture to Alfredo sauce, this pasta sauce is made by emulsifying butter, parmesan, and starchy pasta water to create a delectably creamy sauce without a single drop of heavy cream! Using pasta water instead of cream also allows the lemon zest and juice to shine. This pasta recipe simplifies the process even further by making it all in one pot.

How do you make lemon pasta?

Start by cooking garlic and red pepper flakes in butter and olive oil until they are nice and fragrant. Add the pasta, water, and salt, and stir, stir, stir until the pasta is al dente and the water boils down to a silky, starchy sauce (it only takes 10 minutes). After removing the pasta from the heat and stirring in salty parmesan and bright lemon zest and juice, this dish is ready for a healthy dose of basil and black pepper.

Can I add protein to lemon pasta?

Certainly! This citrusy pasta would make a great side dish for chicken piccata, grilled swordfish, or garlic shrimp. For some veggies, add a leafy green salad.

Do you drain the pasta for lemon pasta?

Nope, no draining is needed for this recipe. That's what makes it so darn easy—the pasta cooking water becomes the sauce!

Can you use bottled lemon juice for lemon pasta?

If possible, you'll want to use fresh lemon juice in this dish. Lemon is the star here and the bottled stuff isn't as bright and lemony as freshly squeezed juice. This recipe uses lemon zest, so you'll definitely need a lemon for that.

How do you store leftover lemon pasta?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It's great for lunch the next day.