Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta with Zucchini Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine pasta; 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter; 4 large garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons; 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta with Zucchini and Squash is a quick and comforting dish, perfect for a bright weeknight dinner. This delightful recipe combines the richness of creamy garlic butter with the freshness of lemon, creating a sauce that elevates simple pasta to a new level of culinary delight. The addition of tender zucchini and yellow squash not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant color to your plate. Let’s dive into making this easy lemon garlic butter recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter

This creamy garlic butter sauce is a game changer for your weeknight meals! Here are a few reasons to love it:

Quick preparation time of just 25 minutes.
Perfectly creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
Bright and zesty flavors from fresh lemon juice and zest.
Versatile dish that can be paired with various proteins or vegetables.
Comforting yet light, thanks to the addition of zucchini and squash.
Great for meal prep and leftovers, making it a practical choice.

This dish is a fantastic example of Italian cuisine that embodies the joy of home cooking.

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter

Gather these items:

12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine pasta
4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter
4 large garlic cloves, minced
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz (340g) of pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes). Save about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons (28g) of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced zucchini and yellow squash with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly firm, about 5-6 minutes. Remove veggies and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt remaining 2 tablespoons (28g) butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn.
Step 4: Pour in 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a low simmer, then stir in 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Slowly add ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add drained pasta and sautéed veggies back into the skillet. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time to loosen sauce if too thick. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if using, and toss gently. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter

Keep these in mind:

This dish is best served fresh to enjoy the vibrant flavors.
You can substitute zucchini and squash with other vegetables as desired, such as asparagus or bell peppers.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter

Here are some great serving ideas:

Pair it with grilled shrimp or chicken for a hearty meal.
Serve alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with creamy garlic lemon dressing.
This lemon garlic butter sauce is also fantastic drizzled over roasted vegetables.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter

To store, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce, and gently warm it over low heat. This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients, especially lemon juice and garlic. This adds a brightness and depth of flavor that elevates the dish. For a quick creamy lemon garlic sauce, ensure not to overcook the garlic to prevent bitterness.

Can I make Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply warm it gently and toss it with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure the garlic is sautéed just until fragrant and not browned. Also, add the pasta water gradually to achieve your desired sauce consistency without making it too watery.

Variations of Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter You Can Try

Here are a few variations to explore:

For a lemon-infused garlic butter, add lemon zest and thyme to the butter as it melts.
Make it a garlic lemon herb butter by adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Try a lemon garlic butter for seafood, perfect for drizzling over grilled fish or shrimp.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with a homemade lemon garlic butter made of Greek yogurt.