Lemon Garlic Pasta

Name: Lemon Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 oz spaghetti noodles; 1/3 cup sea salt (for boiling pasta water); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; Zest of 2 lemons & juice of 1 lemon; 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cut into tbsp sizes and kept chilled); 1/2 cup reserved pasta water; 1 1/4 cups parmesan cheese, finely grated (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano); 6 oz prosciutto; 1 tbsp olive oil

By:

Sarah

Published:

October 31, 2025

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Lemon Garlic Pasta is one of those delightful recipes that never fails to impress, whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a weekend gathering with friends. Picture this: a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in a creamy, lemony sauce, and topped with crispy prosciutto. It’s comforting yet refreshing, and the perfect balance of flavors makes every bite an experience. The magic truly lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Fresh garlic invites you in, while zesty lemon gives everything a lift. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! So grab your apron, and let’s whip up a delicious meal that will surely become a favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of fresh lemon and creamy sauce creates a rich and delightful flavor that dances on your palate. Lemon adds that bright touch, making the dish feel light, while the cream brings in a comforting richness. Garlic, on the other hand, adds depth, turning the ordinary into something aromatic and inviting.

Using high-quality ingredients like Parmigiano-Reggiano enhances the overall taste and texture. When you use the best, it shows in the final dish. So, don’t hesitate to splurge a little on good cheese. It makes a real difference!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Pasta

You’ll find this dish to be a quick and effortless meal, perfect for those busy weeknights or even special occasions. It strikes that fantastic balance between comforting and indulgent while still being light enough to leave you feeling good. Plus, you can impress your family and friends with an elegant dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Who wouldn’t love that?

Ingredients

16 oz spaghetti noodles
1/3 cup sea salt (for boiling pasta water)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Zest of 2 lemons & juice of 1 lemon
6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cut into tbsp sizes and kept chilled)
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1 1/4 cups parmesan cheese, finely grated (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
6 oz prosciutto
1 tbsp olive oil

Preparing to Cook

Bring Water to a Boil

Start by filling a large pot with 5-6 quarts of water. Set it on the stove and bring it to a rolling boil. This is the first step to cooking perfect pasta.

Add Sea Salt

Once your water is bubbling away, stir in 1/3 cup of sea salt. Trust me; this simple step enhances the pasta’s flavor and makes a noticeable difference.

Cooking the Prosciutto

Sauté Prosciutto

While the water boils, it’s time to get that prosciutto ready. Cut it into smaller strips, and toss them into a large frying pan over medium heat with some olive oil.

Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring often. Look for that golden brown and crisped texture. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside. This adds a crunchy layer that perfectly complements the creamy pasta.

Making the Lemon Cream Sauce

Prepare Ingredients

Now, as the prosciutto cooks, multitasking is key! Zest the 2 lemons, juice 1 lemon, slice the garlic, grate the parmesan, and cut the butter into tbsp sizes. Everything should be ready by the time your prosciutto is done.

Combine Cream, Garlic, and Lemon

In a heavy-bottomed pot, add the lemon zest, sliced garlic, and heavy cream. Set the heat to medium and stir occasionally until the cream starts to simmer. You’ll begin to smell that wonderful aroma.

Emulsify the Butter

Next, gradually whisk in 1 tbsp of butter at a time. Watch it melt and blend into the cream. Repeat with the remaining butter until everything is silky. This will give you a luscious sauce.

Cooking the Pasta

Cook Spaghetti

Now that your water’s ready and the sauce is simmering, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.

Combine Everything

Once done, raise the heat on your lemon cream sauce slightly. Quickly transfer the cooked noodles into the cream pot in batches. Toss well after each addition. This way, every strand of pasta gets coated beautifully.

Bringing It All Together

Incorporate Pasta Water

Don’t forget to toss in the reserved pasta water! This helps thin the sauce just right for that creamy consistency without being overly rich.

Add Parmesan and Lemon Juice

Next, gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese in thirds. Stir well after each addition for the best results. Then, add 3 tbsp to 1/4 cup of lemon juice. This adds brightness and balances the dish. Toss everything together to mix thoroughly.

Garnish with Prosciutto

Finally, finish it off by garnishing your beautiful creation with the crispy prosciutto you set aside earlier. This adds flavor and lifts the dish visually.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of color and flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. Pair this dish with garlic bread and a fresh garden salad to make it a complete meal everyone will love.

Tips for Success

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Feel free to adjust the garlic and lemon juice based on your taste preferences. A little extra zing never hurts!

Variations

If you’d like to switch things up, swap spaghetti for linguine or fettuccine. Each type brings its own texture to the dish.

For a vegetarian option, you can totally omit the prosciutto and toss in some sautéed veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes. This keeps the dish vibrant and nutritious.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll last up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, do so gently in a saucepan. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of water or cream.

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Lemon Garlic Pasta with a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio. It provides a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the dish. A zesty arugula salad complements it beautifully, cutting through the richness.

FAQs

Can I make Lemon Garlic Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Just prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, though keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply choose gluten-free pasta at your store.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach are nice additions for extra nutrition.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or cream to prevent dryness.

Lemon Garlic Pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to any meal. The rich sauce, zesty lemon, and savory prosciutto make it utterly delicious and memorable. So gather your loved ones and enjoy this culinary masterpiece!