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Simple Lemon Butter Pasta

A bright, cozy 20‑minute pasta made with butter, fresh lemon, garlic, and Parmesan. Silky, fresh, and comforting — perfect for easy weeknights with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta spaghetti, linguine, or any shape
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 –3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon zest + 2–3 tbsp juice
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: chopped basil or parsley
  • Optional: cooked chicken or shrimp

Method
 

  1. Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Melt butter with olive oil in a pan.
  3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and toss until coated. Use pasta water if needed.
  6. Add Parmesan and mix until the sauce becomes silky.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes or herbs. Serve warm.