Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce and Basil Recipe Easy & Delicious

A refreshing twist on a classic pasta dish with lemon, butter, and basil. Simple yet incredibly flavorful.

1. Introduction

Who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of pasta? It’s a dish that speaks to the heart with its comforting, familiar flavors. But what if you could add a bright, refreshing twist that elevates your typical pasta night into something special? This pasta with lemon butter sauce and basil recipe is here to do just that. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that perfectly balances creaminess from butter, zesty lemon notes, and the fresh aromatic touch of basil.

Pasta dishes like this one are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal when hosting friends. Throughout this article, we’ll explore the best ingredients, preparation techniques, and variations to make your lemon-basil pasta exceptional.

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2. Ingredients Overview

This recipe uses a handful of high-quality ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Pasta with lemon butter sauce and basil recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients, but choosing the best quality can make a significant difference in the final result.

2.1 Main Ingredients Described

2.1.1 Pasta: Any type of long pasta, such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine, works wonderfully here. Spaghetti gives a traditional Italian feel, while fettuccine adds more weight to the dish. For a lighter texture, you could opt for angel hair.

2.1.2 Lemon: The star of the sauce is fresh lemon. It’s vital to use fresh lemons rather than bottled lemon juice. Look for firm, vibrant lemons with a shiny peel, as these are typically juicier and more flavorful.

2.1.3 Butter: Butter creates a luscious, silky sauce. You can use either salted or unsalted butter, but if using salted, be careful with the additional salt in the recipe.

2.1.4 Basil: Fresh basil is irreplaceable in this recipe. The fragrant leaves add depth and a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

2.2 Additional Ingredients

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, umami flavor that balances the brightness of the lemon.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps marry the flavors together.
• Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key for bringing out the best in each component.

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3. Preparing the Ingredients

Preparation is key to any great dish, and pasta with lemon butter sauce and basil recipe is no exception. Ensuring your ingredients are ready before cooking will help the process go smoothly and ensure you’re serving the best version of this dish.

• Lemon Zest and Juice: Start by zesting the lemon with a microplane, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. Once zested, cut the lemon in half and juice it.
• Butter: Cut the butter into small pieces to help it melt evenly.
• Basil: Stack and roll the basil leaves, then slice them thinly into a chiffonade.

4. Cooking Instructions

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of cooking this delicious pasta dish. Follow these steps to achieve perfection:

4.1 Cooking Pasta Perfectly

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add about a tablespoon of salt for every 4 cups of water. This ensures your pasta is seasoned well.
2. Add Pasta: Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help bring the sauce together.

4.2 Making the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s fully liquefied but not browned.
2. Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Let it cook for a minute until the lemon is fragrant.
3. Add Pasta Water: Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, stirring constantly. This will create a silky emulsion that coats the pasta perfectly.

4.3 Combining Pasta with Sauce

1. Combine Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine and ensure every strand is coated with the lemon butter mixture.
2. Add Basil: Stir in the freshly chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Tips and Tricks for the Best Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce and Basil Recipe

• Balance Acidity: If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to mellow it out.
• Creamy Variation: For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream when adding the lemon juice.
• Vegan Alternative: Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
• Pasta Water: Don’t skip adding the pasta water; it helps emulsify the sauce and create a glossy finish.

6. Serving Suggestions

This pasta with lemon butter sauce and basil recipe is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

• Light Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette complements the zesty flavors of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread for a heartier meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini or asparagus are excellent accompaniments.

7. Nutritional Information

This dish is light yet satisfying, packed with the fresh flavors of lemon and basil. Here is an approximate breakdown:

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g

Basil is rich in antioxidants, while lemon provides a dose of vitamin C, making this pasta dish not only delicious but also nourishing.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to make pasta with lemon butter sauce and basil recipe?

• Follow the step-by-step instructions above to create a perfect lemon-butter pasta dish that’s refreshing and easy to make.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

• While you can use dried basil in a pinch, the fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic flavor that’s hard to replicate. If using dried, use about a third of the amount.

What types of pasta work best for this recipe?

• Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works best as it holds the sauce well. However, you can also use short pasta like penne or farfalle if that’s what you have on hand.

9. Variations and Customizations

• Add Protein: Grilled shrimp, seared chicken breast, or tofu are great additions if you want to add protein.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach or arugula for a pop of green, or add roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
• Creamy Version: Add a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half to the lemon butter sauce for a richer, creamier texture.

10. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Sauce Separation: If the sauce separates, it’s likely because the heat was too high when adding the lemon. Lower the heat and add a splash of pasta water while whisking vigorously to bring it back together.
• Overcooked Pasta: Always aim for al dente. If overcooked, shock the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process, then add it to the sauce.
• Too Tart: If the lemon flavor is overpowering, add a bit more butter or a touch of cream to mellow it out.

11. Related Recipes

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Check out our creamy garlic version for a comforting alternative.
• Pasta Aglio e Olio: If you like simple pasta recipes, our aglio e olio is perfect for you.
• Lemon Chicken Piccata: Another lemon-forward dish that pairs beautifully with pasta.

12. Conclusion

This pasta with lemon butter sauce and basil recipe brings simplicity and elegance to your table. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening alone or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. The fresh, zesty flavors, combined with the creamy texture, create a delightful experience that’s easy to fall in love with. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations and share your feedback!

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