Pasta is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It’s quick, easy, and can be paired with a variety of sauces and flavors. One such flavor is lemon, which adds a tangy and refreshing twist to traditional pasta dishes. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a simple and delicious pasta with lemon cream sauce that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pan. Stir well and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese to the pan and stir until melted and combined with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss until evenly coated with the lemon cream sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This pasta with lemon cream sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The lemon cream sauce is tangy and creamy, and pairs perfectly with the spaghetti. The addition of garlic and Parmesan cheese adds depth and flavor to the sauce, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian: This dish is already vegetarian, but you can make it even more veggie-friendly by adding some sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Vegan: To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream.
- Shrimp: If you’re a seafood lover, you can add some cooked shrimp to the pasta for a protein-packed meal.
- Chicken: If you prefer chicken, you can add some cooked chicken breast to the pasta instead of shrimp.
- Spicy: For a spicy twist, you can add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño to the sauce.
Conclusion
Pasta with lemon cream sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tangy lemon cream sauce pairs perfectly with spaghetti for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. So why not give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills?
FAQ
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. However, we recommend using a pasta with a shape that can hold the sauce, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, we recommend using fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can have a slightly bitter taste and lacks the freshness of fresh lemon juice.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
While you can make the sauce ahead of time, we recommend making it fresh as the lemon cream sauce can separate if it sits for too long. If you do make it ahead of time, reheat it over low heat and whisk it until it comes back together.
Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the pasta. We recommend adding vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli that pair well with lemon. Sauté the vegetables in olive oil until they are tender, and then add them to the pasta and sauce.
Can I use a substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, you can use a substitute for heavy cream such as half-and-half or whole milk. However, the sauce will not be as rich and creamy.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese such as parmesan or romano. However, we recommend using a cheese that has a tangy flavor that pairs well with lemon.
Can I use a non-dairy milk substitute?
While you can use a non-dairy milk substitute, the sauce will not be as rich and creamy as it would be with heavy cream. We recommend using a non-dairy milk substitute that is high in fat, such as coconut milk.
Can I use a different type of citrus fruit?
Yes, you can use a different type of citrus fruit such as lime or orange. However, the flavor of the sauce will be different than if you use lemon.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the ingredients of any other products used in the recipe, such as chicken broth, to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
While this recipe contains dairy products, you can make it vegan by substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk substitute, and using vegan cheese.
