Lemon Butter Pasta Peas (Printable Version)

A vibrant pasta tossed in lemon butter sauce with peas and Parmesan cheese.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz linguine or spaghetti

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - Zest of 1 lemon
05 - 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Dairy and Fats

07 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
08 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional for serving

→ Seasonings

09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus additional for pasta water
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
02 - While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
03 - Stir in the peas and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through and tender.
04 - Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, stirring to combine.
05 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
06 - Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes silky, adding more pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
07 - Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
08 - Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and Easy: From start to finish in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh and homemade.
  • Bright Spring Flavors: The combination of lemon, butter, and sweet peas creates a refreshing yet comforting sauce that celebrates the season.
  • Simple Ingredients: No exotic or hard-to-find items—just pantry staples and fresh produce come together beautifully.
  • Vegetarian Friendly: A satisfying meatless main dish that doesn't compromise on flavor or heartiness.
  • Crowd Pleaser: The classic Italian flavors appeal to all ages and dietary preferences, making it perfect for family dinners.
02 -
  • Don't Overcook the Garlic: Keep the heat at medium and watch the garlic carefully—it should become fragrant and golden, never brown, which would make it bitter.
  • Use Fresh Lemon: Bottled lemon juice can't compare to fresh for this recipe. The zest is equally important for aromatic oils.
  • Grate Your Own Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated Parmesan creates a much silkier sauce.
  • Work Quickly: Once the pasta is drained, move fast. Hot pasta absorbs the sauce better and helps the cheese melt smoothly.
  • Reserve Extra Pasta Water: Even if the recipe calls for 1 cup, keep the pot handy. You may need a splash more to achieve the perfect consistency.
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