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pasta al limon in a pan with basil
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Pasta al Limone Recipe

Pasta al limone made with lemon, garlic, butter, cream, and parmesan for a bright, creamy, restaurant-style pasta dish.
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Mallory Austin

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta shells spaghetti or linguine work instead
  • 6 tbsp butter divided
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced or pressed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • zest & juice of 1 lemon reserve some for garnish
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving

  • fresh basil
  • extra parmesan
  • reserved lemon zest

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • While pasta cooks, zest the lemon and set aside. Juice the lemon into a cup and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds.
  • Pour in heavy cream and most of the lemon zest. Allow the cream to warm until it begins to gently bubble around the edges.
  • Add remaining butter 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously to fully incorporate before adding the next piece.
  • Stir in parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth. Season with black pepper and a small pinch of salt.
  • Remove the pan from heat. Add lemon juice and ½ cup reserved pasta water. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and slightly loosened.
  • Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add drained pasta and toss to coat.
  • Let the pasta cook for 1–2 minutes, tossing frequently, until the sauce thickens and clings to the pasta.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve immediately topped with fresh basil, extra parmesan, and reserved lemon zest.

Notes

Add lemon juice off heat
This keeps the flavor bright and prevents the cream from curdling.
Butter = glossy sauce
Adding butter gradually helps emulsify the sauce and gives it that silky finish.
Use pasta water as needed
It helps loosen the sauce and bind everything together.