7 Dinner Recipes Pasta Lemon
Pasta with a Zesty Lemon Twist
Pasta dishes are a beloved choice for dinner, offering a range of flavors and textures that can satisfy any palate. In this article, I will share seven delicious lemon pasta recipes that highlight the bright and zesty qualities of lemon, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress guests, lemon-infused pasta can elevate your dining experience.
Cooking with lemon not only adds a refreshing taste but also brings a variety of nutritional benefits. In each dinner recipes pasta lemon I will include a list of ingredients alongside their key nutrients, making it easy for you to choose dishes that suit your dietary preferences. Get ready to explore these tasty options that will inspire your next dinner!
1. Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
I love making Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta for dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich lemon sauce that is both satisfying and refreshing. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy gathering.
To start, I cook 8 ounces of uncooked pasta. While the pasta is boiling, I prepare the sauce. I use 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté 1 clove of minced garlic until fragrant. Then, I add 1/2 tablespoon of flour to thicken the mixture.
Next, I pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth or dry white wine. I also add 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice and the zest of half a lemon for extra flavor. After this, I pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. I season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the sauce is ready, I add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. I stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for about five minutes. Finally, I mix in the cooked pasta and serve it topped with 1/3 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and optional fresh parsley.
This dish is simple to make and is always a hit at the table.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Nutrients (per serving) |
|---|---|
| 8 oz uncooked pasta | 210 calories, 7g protein |
| 2 Tbsp butter | 200 calories, 0g protein |
| 1/2 Tbsp flour | 15 calories, 0.5g protein |
| 1 clove garlic | 4 calories, 0.2g protein |
| 1/4 cup chicken broth | 10 calories, 2g protein |
| 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice | 2 calories, 0g protein |
| Zest of 1/2 lemon | 2 calories, 0g protein |
| 1 cup heavy cream | 800 calories, 5g protein |
| 2 cups cooked chicken | 340 calories, 62g protein |
| 1/3 cup parmesan cheese | 120 calories, 10g protein |
| Salt & pepper | 0 calories |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | 2 calories |
2. Spaghetti al Limone
Spaghetti al Limone is a simple yet delightful dish. It features fresh lemon juice and zest, which give the pasta a refreshing taste. The sauce is creamy, made by adding butter and Parmesan cheese.
To make this dish, I prefer using high-quality spaghetti. Cooking it al dente gives the best texture. I start by boiling water and adding salt before adding the pasta.
While the pasta cooks, I prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, I melt butter and add lemon juice and zest. This mixture simmers for a short time. I then pour in some reserved pasta water to thicken the sauce.
Once the pasta is ready, I drain it and add it to the skillet. It’s essential to toss the spaghetti well to ensure it gets coated with the sauce. The final touch is to stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added creaminess.
I like to garnish my Spaghetti al Limone with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley. A sprinkle of black pepper enhances the flavor as well. This dish not only looks appealing but also tastes fantastic.
For ingredients, here’s a simple list:
| Ingredient | Nutrients (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 200 calories |
| Butter | 100 calories |
| Lemon juice | 4 calories |
| Lemon zest | 1 calorie |
| Parmesan cheese | 110 calories |
| Black pepper | 6 calories |
This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for any dinner occasion.
3. Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta
For a quick and tasty meal, I often make Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta. This dish is both simple and flavorful. It features fresh ingredients that come together quickly.
To start, I gather my ingredients. I typically use spaghetti noodles, olive oil, unsalted butter, fresh garlic, and a lemon. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch at the end.
I cook the spaghetti in salted water until it’s al dente. Meanwhile, I heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Once the butter melts, I add minced garlic. I cook it until it’s fragrant, about one minute.
Next, I drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water. Then, I toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet. I add fresh lemon juice and some reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
To finish, I sprinkle chopped parsley on top. A little lemon zest can add extra flavor too. This dish is bright, flavorful, and satisfying.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Nutrients per serving |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti Noodles | 200 calories, 7g protein |
| Olive Oil | 120 calories, 0g protein |
| Unsalted Butter | 100 calories, 0g protein |
| Fresh Garlic | 5 calories, 0.2g protein |
| Lemon | 5 calories, 0.1g protein |
| Fresh Parsley | 1 calorie, 0.1g protein |
4. Angel Hair Lemon Pasta with Shrimp
I enjoy making Angel Hair Lemon Pasta with Shrimp because it’s quick and full of flavor. The lightness of the dish makes it perfect for a weeknight meal or even a special occasion.
To start, I gather the ingredients. I need 1 pound of angel hair pasta, 1 pound of shrimp, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, the juice of 1 large lemon, and the zest of half a lemon. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add great flavor too.
I cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. While the pasta is cooking, I heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts, I add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
Next, I mix in the lemon juice and zest, creating a light sauce. I then toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the shrimp. If needed, I add some reserved pasta water to help combine everything.
To finish, I sprinkle on fresh herbs and some parmesan cheese if I like. This dish is simple but so satisfying, with the bright lemon flavor balancing the richness of the shrimp. It’s a delightful dinner option that I often return to.
5. Lemon Herb Chicken Fettuccine
Lemon Herb Chicken Fettuccine is a delightful dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of cream. I enjoy making this recipe because it is both flavorful and simple.
To prepare this dish, I start with fettuccine noodles. I cook them until they are al dente. This gives the pasta a nice texture that pairs well with the sauce.
Next, I marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and a mix of herbs. The marinade includes basil, oregano, garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes for some heat. This makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.
After the chicken is cooked, I add it to the pasta in a skillet. I pour in a creamy lemon sauce made from heavy cream, lemon zest, and salt. I toss everything together, making sure the pasta is coated well.
For a finishing touch, I stir in fresh parsley to add color and freshness. My family loves how the lemon flavor shines in this dish.
Here is a quick list of ingredients I use:
| Ingredient | Nutrients |
|---|---|
| Fettuccine | Carbohydrates, Protein |
| Chicken | Protein, B Vitamins, Iron |
| Olive Oil | Healthy Fats, Vitamin E |
| Lemon Juice | Vitamin C, Antioxidants |
| Basil and Oregano | Vitamins, Antioxidants |
| Garlic | Manganese, Vitamin B6 |
| Heavy Cream | Fats, Calcium |
| Parsley | Vitamins A, C, K |
Lemon Herb Chicken Fettuccine is a quick meal that is perfect for any night of the week. It is satisfying and packed with flavor, making it a favorite in my household.
6. Parmesan Lemon Pasta Primavera
I love making Parmesan Lemon Pasta Primavera because it’s simple and full of fresh flavors. This dish celebrates seasonal vegetables paired with a bright, zesty sauce.
For this recipe, I usually choose pasta like penne or farfalle. These shapes hold the sauce well, making every bite delicious.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Ingredient | Nutrient Values |
|---|---|
| Pasta (8 oz) | 320 calories |
| Mixed vegetables (2 cups) | 50 calories |
| Olive oil (2 tbsp) | 240 calories |
| Garlic (2 cloves) | 10 calories |
| Lemon juice (1 lemon) | 12 calories |
| Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup) | 220 calories |
I start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. While it’s cooking, I sauté my vegetables in olive oil until they are tender. Adding garlic gives it extra flavor.
Next, I mix in the cooked pasta, lemon juice, and Parmesan. I stir it well to combine everything. The heat will help melt the cheese and create a creamy texture.
This dish is best served warm and garnished with fresh parsley. It’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
7. Lemon Ricotta Penne
For a bright and creamy dish, I love making Lemon Ricotta Penne. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Nutrients
| Ingredient | Nutritional Info (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Penne Pasta (12 oz) | 840 calories, 36g protein |
| Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) | 300 calories, 24g protein |
| Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup) | 220 calories, 20g protein |
| Olive Oil (2 tbsp) | 240 calories, 0g protein |
| Lemon (1) | 15 calories, 0g protein |
| Fresh Parsley | 1 calorie, 0g protein |
I start by cooking the penne in well-salted water until it’s al dente. While it cooks, I mix the ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl.
Once the pasta is ready, I reserve a bit of the cooking water. After draining the pasta, I combine it with the ricotta mixture and toss well. If it seems dry, I add a little of the reserved water.
Lastly, I drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley. This Lemon Ricotta Penne is a refreshing and delightful dish that’s sure to impress.
Understanding the Appeal of Dinner Recipes Pasta Lemon
Lemon pasta is loved for its bright flavor and health benefits. The combination of fresh lemons enhances any dish and adds a unique twist that many enjoy. In this section, I will explore its flavor profile and the health benefits of incorporating lemons into my cooking.
Flavor Profile of Lemon Pasta
The flavor of lemon pasta is refreshing and vibrant. The acidity from fresh lemons balances well with creamy sauces, creating a delightful contrast. When I use lemon zest, it provides a fragrant burst that elevates the dish’s aroma and overall taste.
The brightness of lemon cuts through heavier flavors, making it perfect for rich ingredients like butter or cream. I find that adding herbs like basil or parsley further enhances the dish, providing layers of flavor that make lemon pasta appealing to many palates.
Health Benefits of Lemons in Cooking
Lemons offer numerous health benefits that make them a great addition to my meals. They are rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes skin health. Including lemons in my pasta dishes can be an easy way to boost my daily nutrient intake.
Moreover, lemons contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress. The citric acid in lemons aids digestion and can help enhance nutrient absorption. I appreciate how using lemons not only adds flavor but also contributes positively to my overall health.
Techniques for Cooking Perfect Pasta
Cooking pasta correctly is essential for any dish, especially when paired with lemon. There are specific techniques that enhance flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Here are key aspects to consider.
Optimal Cooking Times for Different Pasta Types
Cooking times vary based on pasta shape and type. Here are general guidelines:
- Spaghetti: 8-12 minutes
- Penne: 11-13 minutes
- Fusilli: 9-11 minutes
- Fettuccine: 10-13 minutes
To determine the right doneness, I often check for ‘al dente,’ which means the pasta should be firm to the bite. This allows the pasta to maintain its texture when mixed with sauce. Always refer to the package instructions for accurate timings since fresh pasta cooks faster than dried. Remember to taste a piece before draining to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
Choosing the Right Pasta for Lemon Dishes
For lemon-based recipes, I prefer pasta types that hold sauce well. Some great options include:
- Fettuccine: Its flat shape catches creamy sauces nicely.
- Penne: The ridges on penne provide a good grip for sauces.
- Linguine: Similar to fettuccine but slightly narrower, ideal for lighter lemon sauces.
I also look for fresh pasta when possible. Fresh varieties absorb flavors better and offer a light texture, enhancing the citrusy taste of lemon. When cooking, I always remember to reserve a cup of pasta water. This starchy water is useful for adjusting the sauce’s consistency, making it easier to achieve the perfect lemon pasta dish.
