A classic Italian-inspired pasta sauce! Here’s a simple recipe for Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta Sauce, also known as Pasta al Limone:
** Servings: 4-6 **
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add lemon juice and wine (if using): Pour in the lemon juice and white wine (if using). Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Add broth and butter: Add the chicken or vegetable broth and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until the butter has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season and combine with pasta: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Use high-quality lemons for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste.
- Add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Substitute the white wine with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer.
- For a creamier sauce, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or Greek yogurt.
- Experiment with different types of pasta, such as pappardelle or linguine, for a unique texture.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta Sauce!