Easy Lemon and Garlic Pasta: Without Cream

Looking for a simple pasta recipe that your whole family will love? Look no further than this easy lemon and garlic pasta recipe! This vibrant dish is sure to become a favorite in your household, thanks to its zesty flavor and simple ingredients.

The best part? This creamy lemon garlic pasta al limone-inspired recipe doesn’t require any heavy cream. This makes it a healthier and lighter option for those who want a simple pasta dish.

The Lemon Pasta Sauce

The lemon garlic pasta sauce is made with a combination of lemon juice, butter, and garlic. It creates a deliciously tangy and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with any type of pasta, like angel hair pasta.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Pasta Sauce

I guarantee this lemon garlic pasta recipe will become a new favorite! Its creamy, delectable sauce, surprisingly made without cream and combines butter, lemon juice, and garlic for a rich flavor. Suitable for any pasta type, angel hair or ribbon varieties particularly excel in absorbing the lush sauce. This recipe also works with gluten-free options available for those with dietary restrictions.

Quick and straightforward to prepare, this recipe offers an extraordinary taste experience. Enhanced by the optional addition of white wine and the freshness of herbs, making it a vibrant yet healthy choice due to its cream-free nature.

The buttery lemon garlic sauce, a highlight of the dish, is perfect for a speedy dinner or a versatile side. This pasta dish can easily be elevated with protein (which we discuss later in this post) or a sprinkle of parmesan and optional cherry tomatoes for extra zing.

More Easy Pasta Dishes You’ll Love

• Easy Blue Cheese Pasta Sauce
• Creamy Leek Pasta – Easy One Pot Recipe
• Spicy Sausage Pasta (One Pot Recipe)
• Cajun Shrimp Pasta
• Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Ingredients You Need for Lemon Garlic Pasta

• pasta shape of your choice. I prefer long pasta noodles for this recipe
• 4 tbsp of lemon zest
• 6 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
• 3 tbsp of unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• 3 fresh garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese or pecorino romano
• pinch of salt and black pepper
• 1/4 – 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes, depending on your desired spice level
• fresh basil or fresh parsley, for garnish

Note

If you have time to roast your garlic ahead of time, roasted garlic is an easy way to elevate this dish and add extra flavour. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hard, substitute with 1/2 tsp of garlic powder.

How to make Lemon Garlic Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Reduce the heat to low-medium heat and add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the grated cheese and toss to coat with the lemon garlic sauce. If the pasta seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or basil.

Tips for Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe

Creating the perfect lemon garlic pasta involves a blend of technique, ingredient selection, and personal touches that elevate the dish from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your lemon juice, garlic, and herbs plays a crucial role in the flavor of your sauce. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly minced garlic will provide a more vibrant taste compared to their bottled or pre-minced counterparts.
2. Quality Pasta Matters: Opt for high-quality pasta, as it will not only taste better but also hold onto the sauce more effectively. Whether you’re using traditional, whole wheat, or gluten-free pasta, choose a brand known for its texture and flavor.
3. Pasta Water is Key: Reserve some of the water used to cook the pasta. The starchy water adds silkiness to the sauce and helps it adhere to the pasta more effectively.
4. Control the Heat: Garlic burns easily and can turn bitter when overcooked. Sauté the garlic over low to medium heat just until it’s fragrant, which usually takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
5. Adjust the Lemon to Your Taste: Start with a bit less lemon juice than the recipe calls for, and adjust according to your taste. The acidity of lemons can vary, so it’s better to add more gradually.
6. Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil not only add a pop of color but also freshness to the dish. Add them at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and color.
7. Season Properly: Don’t forget to season your cooking water with salt, and adjust the seasoning of your sauce with salt and pepper as needed before combining it with the pasta.
8. Finish with Quality Olive Oil or Butter: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of butter added to the sauce can enrich the flavor, adding a luxurious texture and taste.
9. Customize with Toppings: While the lemon garlic pasta is delicious on its own, feel free to customize it with toppings like grated Parmesan cheese, chili flakes for heat, or roasted vegetables and proteins (like shrimp or chicken) for a heartier meal.
10. Serve Immediately: Pasta dishes are best served fresh. The sauce tends to be absorbed by the pasta over time, so for the best texture and flavor, enjoy it right after it’s prepared.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a lemon garlic pasta dish that’s full of flavor, perfectly balanced, and sure to impress anyone who tries it.

How to Serve this Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe

Garnish with fresh herbs: To add a pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, over the top of the pasta.

Add Parmesan cheese: For an extra touch of flavor, top the pasta with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Serve hot: This easy lemon garlic pasta recipe is best served hot, so be sure to serve it immediately after preparing.

What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Pasta Pasta Al Limone

Serving the right accompaniments with lemon garlic pasta can transform it into a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions that complement its flavors beautifully:

Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: A lightly seasoned grilled chicken breast adds a protein boost and complements the pasta’s lemony flavor.
• Shrimp: Sautéed or grilled shrimp pairs wonderfully with the citrus and garlic notes of the pasta.
• Seared Scallops: Offering a sweet and delicate flavor, scallops can elevate the dish to a more sophisticated level.

Vegetable Sides

• Roasted Asparagus: Its earthy flavor and crisp texture make asparagus a great side.
• Grilled Zucchini or Summer Squash: These vegetables add a nice char and sweetness, enhancing the pasta’s flavor profile.
• Cherry Tomato Salad: A simple salad with cherry tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar adds freshness and a touch of acidity.

Breads

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
• Focaccia: Flavored with herbs and olive oil, focaccia is a tasty and aromatic addition.
• Crusty Bread: A simple loaf of crusty bread offers a satisfying texture contrast and is great for dipping.

Salads

• Caesar Salad: Its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offer a rich and varied texture experience.
• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette mirrors the pasta’s lemony zest while adding a peppery bite.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light and refreshing side.

How to Store Garlic Lemon Pasta Leftovers

To store leftover lemon garlic pasta, allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 3 to 5 days.

How to Reheat Lemon Garlic Pasta

For reheating, gently warm it on the stove with a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave it with a splash of water, stirring periodically for even heating. Adding a fresh squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can help rejuvenate the flavors.