Simple & Delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta

Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious pasta dish that can be prepared in just 30 minutes? If so, then this lemon garlic butter pasta is the perfect choice! This simple yet flavorful meal will satisfy your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. Let's dive into how to prepare it.

To start with, you’ll need a few basic ingredients: 8 ounces of pasta (any type), 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 cloves of garlic, 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese for garnish. You may also include some additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or green peas if you wish to make it more hearty.

Begin by boiling your pasta in a large pot filled with water that has been seasoned with salt according to package instructions until al dente—this usually takes around 8-12 minutes depending on the type of pasta. While the pasta is cooking, finely chop the garlic cloves and slice the lemon into thin rounds.

After draining the pasta, return it to the pot and immediately add 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with a generous amount of salt and pepper. Stir well to prevent the pasta from sticking together. This step ensures that your pasta stays fresh while you prepare other components of the dish. Meanwhile, in another smaller skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter.

Once the butter has melted completely, add the finely chopped garlic cloves into the pan and sauté them until they turn golden brown but not blackened. This should take about a minute or so, ensuring you don't burn the garlic as it can turn bitter when overcooked. Add the lemon slices to the skillet and allow them to sizzle for another couple of minutes. Squeeze fresh juice from half a lemon into the pan, stirring everything together to blend flavors.

Now that your pasta is ready and the garlic-lemon sauce is prepared, it’s time to combine all elements. Pour the hot pasta into the skillet with the lemon-garlic butter mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until every strand of pasta absorbs the flavorful sauce. If you prefer a creamier texture for this dish, you could add some heavy cream or half-and-half at this stage and stir well.

For a final touch, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of your pasta. You can also garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while it’s hot to enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors of lemon and garlic combined with tender al dente pasta strands. This dish pairs wonderfully well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a more complete meal.

Cooking time: Approximately 30 minutes

• Preparation Time: About 15 minutes including boiling the pasta.
• Total Time: Around 45 minutes from start to finish.
• Servings: Serves approximately 4 people as a main course.

This lemon garlic butter pasta recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, add some fresh herbs like basil or oregano, and even include your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor. You can also adjust the acidity level by using more lemon juice if you prefer a sharper taste.

For those who want to elevate their cooking skills without spending too much time in the kitchen, this dish offers an excellent balance between simplicity and sophistication. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something quick yet delightful on your plate. Whether it's for dinner or even as a side dish during lunchtime, this pasta will surely become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

Remember that the key to making this dish successful lies in using high-quality ingredients and paying attention to details such as timing when adding garlic and lemon to avoid burning them. By following these steps carefully, you'll be rewarded with a delicious meal that showcases both simplicity and complexity in every bite!

Conclusion

Lemon garlic butter pasta is more than just another pasta dish; it's an opportunity to explore the balance between savory and tangy flavors while enjoying a comforting yet elegant meal. With its ease of preparation, wide range of customization options, and delicious outcome, this recipe stands out as both a practical solution for everyday meals and a delightful option for special occasions.