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Easy • Pasta

Creamy Lemon Dill Pasta

A bright and creamy pasta dish with fresh lemon, fragrant dill, and a hint of garlic.

Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Creamy Lemon Dill Pasta

Sometimes, you just need a pasta dish that feels like sunshine on a plate! This Creamy Lemon Dill Pasta is just that: bright, zesty, and lusciously creamy, yet surprisingly light. It comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal, and its fresh flavors make it feel special enough for company too. Prepare for a new favorite!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 12 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work great)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth or pasta water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3-4 tbsp)
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped, plus more for garnish
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cook pasta according to package directions in salted water. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Set aside.

  2. Step 2

    While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  3. Step 3

    Pour in the vegetable broth (or reserved pasta water) and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

  4. Step 4

    Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped dill. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

  5. Step 5

    Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

  6. Step 6

    Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh dill and Parmesan cheese.

Tips

  • For a protein boost, add cooked shrimp, chicken, or white beans to the sauce.
  • Ensure you reserve some pasta water! Its starch helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a lovely subtle heat to this dish.

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