Quick & Easy Pasta al Limone (Lemon Butter Sauce) – Italian Pasta Recipe

Introduction:

Bright, buttery, and beautifully simple, Quick & Easy Pasta al Limone is Italian comfort food at its finest. This classic southern Italian dish is made with just a handful of pantry staples but delivers big flavor with minimal effort. A silky lemon butter sauce coats strands of warm pasta, creating a perfectly balanced bite that’s both rich and refreshing. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend indulgence, this recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and feels like a touch of Italian sunshine on your plate.

Ingredients:

For 2 Servings:

1. 6 oz spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
2. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3. Zest of 1 lemon
4. Juice of ½ lemon (about 1–2 tablespoons)
5. ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
6. ¼ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
7. Salt and black pepper to taste
8. Optional: 1 tablespoon heavy cream (for a richer sauce)
9. Optional: extra lemon slices or zest for garnish
10. Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add lemon zest and juice. Let it gently bubble for 30 seconds to bloom the citrus flavor.

Step 3: Toss the Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the lemon butter. Toss to coat, then add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir in Parmesan until it melts into a glossy, creamy coating. Add heavy cream if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a touch more lemon zest for brightness. Serve warm.

Optional Variations:

• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or smoked salmon.
• Creamy Upgrade: Stir in cream or mascarpone for a richer texture.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Green Boost: Toss in spinach, peas, or arugula for extra color and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple & Elegant – Classic Italian flavors with minimal effort.
• Fast & Flavorful – Ready in 20 minutes or less.
• Bright & Balanced – Rich butter and cheese meet the zing of lemon.
• Versatile Base – Easy to dress up with protein, veggies, or herbs.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Light enough for lunch, satisfying enough for dinner.

Pasta al Limone is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of simplicity. With every twirl of lemony, buttery noodles, you’ll be reminded that the best food often comes from the simplest ingredients.