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Hunting for a refreshing and satisfying dish? This easy lemon pepper pasta is the ultimate quick weeknight treat. It is ready in no time and all you need is a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients. So effortless!
This lemon and pepper pasta is an absolute game changer when you need a quick, fresh, and utterly swoon-worthy meal.
Plus, it is ready in just 15 minutes! That’s right, and with that zesty lemon pepper pasta sauce, you’ll be in pasta heaven as soon as you take the first bite.
The lemon infuses a burst of citrusy goodness, the black pepper a spicy kick, and all that on a rich and creamy base, thanks to milk.
Mouth watered yet!?
Whether you’re craving something Italian, a last-minute delicious dinner for busy days, or just looking for a light yet flavorful dish, this pasta recipe checks all the boxes.
If you are searching for something more filling, check out these 20 high-protein pasta recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Zesty and Flavorful: This pasta has the perfect balance of brightness and spice, coating each strand of pasta in a tangy embrace.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in a flash, this pasta is perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this lemon black pepper pasta will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients In This Lemon And Pepper Pasta Recipe
Penne Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are great and classic options here. I like penne because it holds the sauce really well, but feel free to go for gluten-free pasta if that’s your style!
Lemon: The zest and juice of fresh lemon is the star of this dish, giving it that vibrant citrusy flavor.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds the perfect punch of heat to balance the richness of the pasta. You can also use store-bought black pepper powder, no worries.
Olive Oil: A healthy drizzle is necessary to help create the luscious velvety sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: This takes the flavor and the texture to the next level. I like to mix things up, hence mozzarella, but for a traditional approach go for parmesan.
Garlic: Minced garlic is a must for that depth of flavor that complements the lemon and pepper.
Milk: A splash of milk will add a creamy texture to the sauce, giving it an even richer and smoother consistency.
Oregano: A pinch of dried oregano will give the dish an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Red Chili Flakes: For a bit of heat and spice, red chili flakes are perfect to add an extra kick to the pasta.
Salt
How to Make Lemon Pepper Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s perfectly al dente, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Then, stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by a generous amount of cracked black pepper. Let this cook together for a minute or two to combine the flavors.
Next, pour in the milk, oregano, and red chili flakes and bring the sauce to a simmer. If it’s too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 3: Toss Everything Together
Once your pasta is drained, add it to the pan with the lemon pepper sauce. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in that zesty, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Season
Sprinkle in the grated mozzarella cheese and toss again. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with a little extra salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Your lemon pepper pasta is ready to enjoy! Plate it up, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top, and dig in.
Tips & Variations
Add Veggies: For some extra freshness, toss in some sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted broccoli. These greens will pair perfectly with the lemon black pepper pasta.
Protein Boost: Make it a more filling meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon. These will complement the zesty pasta sauce beautifully and transform it into a high-protein pasta.
Make it Creamy: For a creamier version of lemon black pepper pasta, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some ricotta cheese to the sauce for added richness.
Serving Options
As a Standalone Dish: This moreish pasta is light yet filling, so it’s perfect as a main dish on its own.
Pair with Grilled Proteins: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a piece of salmon for a hearty and balanced meal.
Perfect Side Dish: What makes this pasta so great is that it also works wonderfully as a side dish to complement a main course like roasted chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables.
How to Store
In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. While it will lose a little of its fresh zestiness, it will still taste amazing when reheated.
Freezer: Freezing this pasta isn’t ideal, as the texture of the pasta will change. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Reheat: Throw the sauce into a skillet and simmer it for 5 minutes.
Meal Prep Tip: You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook your pasta and toss it with the sauce for a quick meal!
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is always best for its vibrant flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the amount to your taste preferences.
What type of pasta is best for lemon pepper pasta?
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work wonderfully, but you can use any pasta you like. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture!
More Pasta Recipes To Try
- Lemon Pesto Pasta
- Lemon Garlic Pasta
- Mushroom Soup Pasta
- Penne Marinara Pasta
- Pesto Alfredo Pasta
- Pasta And Peas Recipe
Please rate and comment if you make this lemon pepper pasta so I know how much you like it.
Zesty & Easy Lemon Pepper Pasta
Ingredients
For Lemon Pepper Sauce
- 1½ tbsp Olive oil
- 3-4 cloves Garlic minced
- ½ cup Milk
- Lemon Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 Lemon squeezed
- ½ tsp Black pepper powder
- Salt
Instructions
- Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s perfectly al dente, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Then, stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by a generous amount of cracked black pepper. Let this cook together for a minute or two to combine the flavors.
- Next, pour in the milk and bring the sauce to a simmer. If it’s too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Once your pasta is drained, add it to the pan with the lemon pepper sauce. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in that zesty, creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle in the grated mozzarella cheese and toss again. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with a little extra salt or pepper if needed.
- Your lemon pepper pasta is ready to enjoy! Plate it up, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top, and dig in.
Notes
- Add Veggies: For some extra freshness, toss in some sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted broccoli. These greens will pair perfectly with the lemon black pepper pasta.
- Protein Boost: Make it a more filling meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon. These will complement the zesty pasta sauce beautifully and transform it into a high-protein pasta.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier version of lemon black pepper pasta, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some ricotta cheese to the sauce for added richness.