Lemon Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2½ cups water
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large yellow onion
sliced
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 cloves garlic
minced
- to tastesalt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 ounces cream cheese
or Neufchatel cheese, at room temperature
- 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- chopped fresh parsley
for garnish, optional
- fresh basil leaves
for garnish, optional
Directions
- 1
In a pasta pot or stockpot, combine pasta, water, vegetable broth, onions, basil leaves, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- 2
Cover and cook over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
- 3
Remove the cover and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is absorbed.
- 4
Remove from heat and immediately stir in the cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese; continue to stir until melted and creamy.
- 5
Garnish with fresh parsley and basil, and serve.
Lemon Pasta Recipe
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 12 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, comforting meal that comes together in a flash? This Lemon Pasta recipe delivers a burst of garlicky, zesty goodness, making it the perfect weeknight indulgence. In just 20 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish that's incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to prepare.
Why This Lemon Pasta Works
The genius of this recipe lies in its one-pot design and the luscious combination of tangy cream cheese with fresh lemon and aromatic garlic. Cooking the penne directly in a flavorful blend of water and vegetable broth infuses every strand with savory depth, ensuring a deeply satisfying dish without the fuss of extra pots and pans. This method creates a creamy sauce base right in the pot, making for an effortless cleanup.
What to Expect from This Zesty Dish
Prepare for a truly delightful experience as you dive into this creamy, zesty pasta. Each bite offers tender penne coated in a rich, velvety sauce brightened by the invigorating punch of fresh lemon juice and finely grated zest. You'll savor the subtle sweetness of sautéed yellow onion, the comforting warmth of minced garlic, and the herbaceous notes of fresh basil, all perfectly balanced by the savory depths of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It's a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light, ideal for any occasion where you crave bright, comforting flavors.
Customization & Variations
This Lemon Pasta is wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences. While cream cheese provides that signature tang and richness, you can easily substitute it with Neufchatel cheese for a slightly lighter option that maintains the desired creamy texture. Don't feel limited to penne; other short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli would also absorb the flavors beautifully in this one-pot method. For an added layer of freshness, consider stirring in a handful of baby spinach or arugula at the very end, just as the pasta finishes cooking. A pinch of red pepper flakes would also introduce a pleasant, subtle warmth if you enjoy a hint of spice.
Serving & Context
This easy Lemon Pasta is an ideal centerpiece for a quick family dinner, a cozy lunch, or even a light supper with friends. Serve it warm, garnished generously with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of vibrant color and an extra layer of aroma. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would complement its rich, zesty flavors beautifully, creating a complete and inviting meal.