Description
Savor the rich flavors of Brown Butter Lemon Pasta, where al dente pasta is enveloped in a nutty brown butter sauce, brightened with fresh lemon juice and zest, and finished with Parmesan and parsley. This elegant yet simple dish is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely, stirring occasionally.
- Continue to cook the butter, stirring frequently, until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the butter is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, stirring well to combine.
- Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the brown butter sauce and toss gently to coat.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, while tossing the pasta until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until melted and well coated.
- Twirl the pasta onto plates or into bowls, ensuring a good amount of sauce with each serving.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and more grated Parmesan if desired.
- Drizzle a little olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
- Serve immediately while warm, paired with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
Notes
- For added protein, consider grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a flavor twist.
- For a nutty flavor, add toasted pine nuts or walnuts as a garnish.
- To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes