This Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a busy day or when you’re craving something light yet indulgent. The tangy lemon, rich butter, and savory garlic combine to create a naturally creamy sauce that will elevate your pasta experience. Whether for a cozy dinner or a simple lunch, this pasta al limone is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines the perfect balance of fresh, zesty lemon flavor with the richness of butter and the warmth of garlic. The result is a creamy, garlicky sauce that’s bursting with flavor, without any heavy cream required. It’s an easy, weeknight-friendly meal that feels both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients
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300 g (10.5 oz) linguine or spaghetti
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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40 g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
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6 garlic cloves, finely sliced
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½ teaspoon red chili flakes
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Zest and juice of 1 lemon
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50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan (or veggie hard Italian cheese)
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A handful freshly chopped parsley
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook the Pasta – Cook the pasta al dente in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining.
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Prepare the Sauce – Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over low-medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and melt it into the oil.
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Sauté the Garlic – Stir in the garlic slices and red chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
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Combine the Pasta and Sauce – Transfer the cooked pasta to the pan with the garlic butter sauce. Toss well using kitchen tongs to coat the pasta evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce looks too thick.
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Add Lemon and Cheese – Stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by the grated Parmesan. Toss the pasta again to combine everything well.
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Garnish and Serve – Add freshly chopped parsley, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately. For extra flavor, top with more grated cheese and lemon zest.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4 servings
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Preparation Time: 5 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Add Protein – For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a plant-based protein like tofu.
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Vegetarian Option – Use a plant-based Parmesan or any hard Italian cheese alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.
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Extra Veggies – Add spinach, arugula, or roasted vegetables to the dish for more texture and flavor.
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Spicy Version – Increase the amount of red chili flakes if you prefer a spicier sauce.
Storage/Reheating
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Storing Leftovers – Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating – Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or olive oil to bring back the creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 30-60 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
While the sauce is best when made fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently before tossing with fresh pasta.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add more lemon juice?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste. If you like a more tangy flavor, feel free to add extra lemon juice.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free butter substitute and a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
How do I make this pasta creamier?
If you want a creamier sauce, you can add a bit of cream or a splash of milk after the Parmesan, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While pasta dishes with butter-based sauces don’t freeze as well as cream-based ones, you can freeze the sauce alone. However, pasta will lose its texture when frozen, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.
Can I add more garlic?
Yes, if you love garlic, you can increase the amount according to your preference. Just be careful not to burn it while cooking.
What can I serve this pasta with?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a light salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Cook the garlic over low to medium heat, and keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat.
Conclusion
This Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta is the ultimate quick and flavorful meal. With a few simple ingredients, it’s bursting with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a rich, buttery sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for busy nights or when you want something both light and indulgent, this pasta is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Enjoy!
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Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta Sauce (Pasta al Limone)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta Sauce (Pasta al Limone) is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of zesty lemon, creamy butter, and aromatic garlic makes this pasta irresistibly delicious. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a satisfying meal for busy days.
Ingredients
300 g (10.5 oz) linguine or spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
40 g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
6 garlic cloves, finely sliced
½ teaspoon red chilli flakes
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan (or veggie hard Italian cheese)
A handful of freshly chopped parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Cook the linguine or spaghetti al dente in salted water according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water.
Make the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven. Melt the butter over low-medium heat.
Cook the Garlic: Stir in the sliced garlic and red chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic turns golden, but be careful not to burn it.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the cooked pasta to the pan and toss with kitchen tongs to coat it in the butter sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
Add Lemon and Cheese: Stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by the grated Parmesan. Toss well to combine everything.
Season and Serve: Add freshly chopped parsley, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately. Top with extra grated cheese and lemon zest if desired.
Notes
Pasta Variations: Feel free to use other types of pasta like fettuccine or penne, depending on your preference.
Cheese Substitutes: If you prefer a non-dairy option, use a vegan Parmesan or other plant-based cheese alternatives.
Spicy Kick: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes for a spicier or milder version.
Additional Toppings: For extra flavor, top with extra fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
