If anyone knows us, you know how much we love our pasta! Not just because of our Italian heritage, but because it is so good and easy to make! With this recipe, you can experience bursts of vibrant flavors with our irresistible creamy lemon garlic pasta sauce. This delectable dish combines the tangy zest of fresh lemons with the savory allure of garlic. The result is a harmonious balance of tanginess and richness that will leave you craving more. Satisfy your taste buds with this mouthwatering and comforting pasta dish that is sure to become a new favorite. Be sure to check out our suggested pairing below!

how to make creamy lemon garlic pasta

METHOD

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a large pan on medium to high heat, saute garlic in olive oil until aromatic. Stir frequently and add salt and pepper to taste. Turn heat to medium-low and stir in flour. Sir consistently and cook until golden brown making sure not to burn the mixture. 

Add in about half of the cream and stir to combine. Continuing stirring, adding in the rest of the cream. Continue cooking the sauce on medium-low until it thickens. Whisk in the lemon juice and lemon zest until evenly combined. Add parmesan cheese and continue to whisk. Lightly fold in the butter and basil, then salt and pepper to taste. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to your packaged instructions. Save one cup of the pasta water.

Add ½ – 1 cup of pasta water to the sauce before combining with the pasta. Plate pasta onto serving dish and garnish with additional basil and parmesan cheese.

Buon Appetito!

Notes

Why save a cup of pasta water? Saving a cup of pasta water and adding it to the sauce is a common cooking technique that helps create a creamy and cohesive sauce. The water from cooking the pasta contains starches released during the boiling process. When added to the sauce, it helps thicken and emulsify, creating a smooth texture and allowing the sauce to better adhere to the pasta. Additionally, the pasta water enhances the flavor of the sauce, as it carries a hint of the pasta’s natural saltiness, elevating the overall taste of the dish.

Suggested Pairing for creamy lemon garlic pasta

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Double the zing, double the fun! Pair our creamy lemon garlic pasta with a lip-smacking limoncello margarita. The pasta’s tangy and creamy goodness matches the citrusy kick of the margarita, creating an explosion of flavors. It’s a duo made in flavor heaven. Cheers to a scrumptious and spirited dining experience! Don’t forget to get yourself some limoncello biscotti for dessert.