Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast & Flavorful

I absolutely adore this Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce! It's one of those dishes that feels fancy yet is incredibly simple to whip up in just 20 minutes. The lightness of the angel hair, combined with the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic, creates a perfect harmony that dances on the palate. Whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress. I also love how the fresh parsley adds a beautiful garnish, making it as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:57:34.743Z

When I first discovered this recipe, I was instantly drawn to the freshness of the ingredients and how quickly it comes together. The trick lies in using high-quality butter and fresh garlic – they elevate the dish to something extraordinary. A simple sauté until fragrant is all it takes to release their full flavor.

I also experimented with the amount of lemon juice, honing in on the perfect balance that brightens the pasta without overpowering it. Using fresh parsley at the end gives it a lovely pop of color and freshness, making each bite delightful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright citrus flavor that lifts the dish
Rich garlic aroma that fills your kitchen
Quick and easy for any night of the week

Cooking the Perfect Angel Hair Pasta

To achieve the ideal texture for your angel hair pasta, timing is crucial. Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water for 2-4 minutes, checking as you go. Angel hair cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a mushy consistency. Aim for al dente, where the pasta is firm to the bite but not hard. Once done, drain the pasta but reserve a cup of the cooking water for later use in the sauce.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients elevates the dish significantly. When selecting your angel hair pasta, look for brands that list durum wheat as the primary ingredient for a better texture and flavor. In addition, using fresh garlic rather than pre-minced or powdered will deliver a bolder, more aromatic punch that perfectly complements the buttery lemon sauce.

Mastering the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

The sauce for this dish is a simple yet crucial element, and mastering it will ensure a perfect flavor balance. Start by melting the butter over medium heat until it becomes frothy. This helps the garlic sauté evenly without burning. Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant, being careful not to let it brown, which can introduce bitterness into your sauce.

Incorporating both the lemon juice and zest is key to achieving that bright, lingering citrus flavor. The juice adds acidity while the zest contributes aromatic oils; together, they create a harmonious blend. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream after the garlic, letting it simmer for an additional minute or two before mixing in the pasta.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious, homemade dish:

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a seamless experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with lemon juice, zest, and chopped parsley. Toss until well combined, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or swapping in additional herbs like basil for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is delightful on its own, but it pairs exceptionally well with grilled shrimp or sautéed vegetables for a heartier meal. For a refreshing side, consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon to echo the flavors of the pasta. I also enjoy serving it alongside crusty bread for dipping into the luscious sauce, making each meal feel special.

For an impressive presentation, plate the dish by twirling the pasta into nests and garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a light dusting of grated Parmesan. Not only does this add visual appeal, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile, creating a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover Angel Hair Pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out, and warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir frequently and cover the pan for even heating while keeping an eye on the pasta to ensure it doesn't overcook.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, if you want to prepare it in advance, consider making the sauce ahead of time and storing it separately. Reheat the sauce while cooking fresh pasta just before serving for optimal texture and flavor. Kept separately, the sauce will last up to a week, making it a convenient option for quick weeknight meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular spaghetti instead of angel hair?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with a vegan alternative and leave out the cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.

→ What can I pair with this dish?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some grilled vegetables!