This Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta is bright and delicious! With just a few simple ingredients like lemon, cream, and pasta, you can whip up a tasty dish in no time.
Honestly, who knew that lemon and cream could be such great pals? I love to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a little extra zing! 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni works beautifully here, but any pasta shape you love will do! Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti are also nice choices. Just pick what you have on hand!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half, or even dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream. Each will lend a different twist to the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grating your cheese fresh makes a real difference in flavor! If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for vegan options) can work well too.
Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used, though the fresh kind really elevates the dish!
How Do You Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Achieving the perfect creamy sauce is crucial for this dish. Here are my tips to get it right:
- When adding the heavy cream, keep the heat low to prevent it from boiling, which can cause it to separate.
- After adding Parmesan, keep stirring until it’s fully melted and combined. You want a smooth texture!
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta if it feels too thick.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a deliciously creamy lemon pasta that shines with flavor!
Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta will take about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 15 minutes cooking the pasta and making the sauce, and the rest is just for stirring and assembling everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander, but don’t forget to save about ½ cup of the pasta water for later—this will help make your sauce creamy!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring often. You want the garlic to become fragrant but avoid burning it, as that can make it bitter.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let this cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is velvety.
4. Season the Sauce:
Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Make sure to taste it; you want it just right!
5. Combine with Pasta:
Toss in the cooked pasta to the sauce, mixing gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your creamy lemon pasta onto plates. If you like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish. Enjoy your bright and flavorful meal!
There’s nowhere to go wrong with this simple recipe. Enjoy every bite! 🍋🍝
FAQ for Easy Creamy Lemon Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is delicious, feel free to swap it for any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat milk. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or cashew cream; however, this will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, reheat the sauce gently, and toss them together!
