Lemon Butter Pasta

Hey there, pasta lovers! There’s something about spring that makes me crave light, fresh, and buttery pasta dishes. This Lemon Butter Pasta is my go-to for the season; it’s simple, flavorful, and super quick to make. With a zesty lemon kick, rich butter, and the added crunch of poppy seeds, this dish is the perfect combination of creamy and citrusy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Method 

Cook the Pasta

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to check the pasta’s doneness by tasting a piece, as you want it to be al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Before draining the pasta, make sure to reserve about ½ cup of the salty pasta water. This water will become an essential ingredient in creating the silky sauce that will coat your pasta later on. Set it aside for later use.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

While your pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. As the butter melts, add the thinly sliced garlic to the pan. Stir the garlic occasionally and let it cook until it turns fragrant and golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on the garlic if it burns, it will add a bitter taste to your dish. You want it to achieve a light golden color and a deliciously fragrant aroma.

Toss Everything Together

Once the pasta is ready and drained, add it directly to the pan with the garlic butter mixture. Use tongs or a spoon to toss the pasta, ensuring that every noodle is coated with that rich, buttery goodness. As you toss, sprinkle in the fresh lemon zest, squeezing in the juice from the lemon. This is where the bright citrusy flavor really comes through! Add the grated parmesan and a pinch of fresh ground pepper to the pasta, giving it a good toss again to evenly distribute the flavors.

Add Pasta Water and Adjust the Sauce

At this point, the magic happens. Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring and tossing the pasta as you go. The pasta water helps create a silky, smooth sauce that clings to the noodles perfectly. If you want a creamier texture, feel free to add more pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning by adding more lemon, pepper, or parmesan if needed. This is the moment to make sure the flavor is just right!

Finish and Serve

Once the pasta is perfectly coated with the sauce and seasoned to your liking, it’s time to serve! Plate your Lemon Butter Pasta and top it off with a generous sprinkle of poppy seeds for an extra layer of crunch and texture. Add more grated parmesan on top for that irresistible cheesy finish. Now, you’re ready to enjoy this refreshing and satisfying dish.

Necessary Tools 

• Pot for cooking pasta
• Skillet or frying pan for melting butter
• Microplane or grater for lemon zest
• Tongs or spoon for tossing pasta
• Small bowl for parmesan

Serving Suggestions 

• This pasta pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled chicken or shrimp for some extra protein.
• You can also serve it with a fresh salad, something light and crisp, like a mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette would be perfect.
• For an extra spring touch, try adding some fresh herbs like basil or parsley to garnish.

Fun Fact 

Did you know that lemon is packed with Vitamin C? It not only adds a burst of flavor but also helps boost your immune system. So, you can feel good about getting your daily dose of goodness while enjoying this zesty pasta!

Conclusion 

This Lemon Butter Pasta is the perfect dish to celebrate the flavors of spring! It’s simple, quick, and bursting with citrusy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner by yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, the poppy seeds on top add a nice crunch that takes it to the next level. Give it a try, you won’t regret it!