Ingredients
12 oz (340g) Pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
2 tbsp Unsalted butter
4 cloves Garlic, minced
1 medium Shallot, finely diced
1 cup (240ml) Heavy cream
2 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp Lemon zest
1 cup (100g) Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼ cup Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve at least 1 cup of the pasta water.
2. Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Build the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a very gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken.
4. Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
5. Combine and Serve: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss vigorously to coat every strand, adding more pasta water if needed to create a silky, clinging sauce. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of cold butter. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving immediately.
Notes
Pro-Tips:
• Reserve Pasta Water: This liquid gold is the secret to thinning the sauce and helping it emulsify into a silky coating.
• Grate Cheese Fresh: Always grate your Parmesan from a wedge for the best melt.
• Low and Slow: Keep the heat at medium-low when adding cream to prevent separation or scorching.
• Finish with Butter: Stirring in a cold tablespoon of butter at the end adds a velvety shine.
Variations:
• Mushroom Medley: Sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms with the shallots.
• Spring Veggie Boost: Toss in baby spinach or arugula during the last minute of tossing.
• Spicy Arrabbiata Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian