Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon about 3 tbsp
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer for a minute to combine the flavors.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!