By Akshara
March 10, 2026
Lemon butter pasta is a simple Italian-style dish known for its bright citrus flavour and silky sauce. The sauce forms when butter, lemon juice and starchy pasta water emulsify together. Parmesan cheese adds a mild savoury depth while fresh herbs keep the dish light. It is commonly prepared as a quick meal that still feels elegant and satisfying.
200 g spaghetti or linguine 2 tbsp butter 1 garlic clove finely chopped Zest and juice of 1 lemon 2 tbsp grated parmesan Salt and black pepper Fresh parsley
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente and reserve some of the pasta cooking water.
Melt butter in a pan and cook the chopped garlic gently until aromatic.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice and a splash of pasta water to create a light sauce.
Toss the cooked pasta into the pan and stir until the sauce coats the noodles evenly.
Finish with parmesan cheese, parsley and freshly cracked pepper before serving.