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Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta is a culinary delight that embodies the essence of comfort food while offering a refreshing twist. This dish marries the rich creaminess of heavy cream with the bright, tangy notes of fresh lemon, creating a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Enhanced by a hint of spice, the recipe strikes an ideal equilibrium, making it a beloved choice for many home cooks.

Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta

Indulge in the deliciousness of Creamy Zesty Lemon Pasta, a perfect blend of richness and refreshing citrus. This easy-to-make dish combines the creaminess of heavy cream with the bright notes of fresh lemon for a flavor experience that’s satisfying and vibrant. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is versatile and impressive. Elevate your cooking with simple ingredients and a touch of creativity for a meal everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

Zest of 2 large lemons

Juice of 1 large lemon

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Extra lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine (or spaghetti) according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

    Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.

      Add Cream and Zest: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened slightly.

        Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy lemon sauce. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired creaminess.

          Stir in Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while tossing the pasta. Keep tossing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, adjusting seasoning if necessary.

            Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty kick.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings