...
Go Back
–+ servings
Overhead view of creamy lemon parmesan recipe pasta on a white kitchen counter, sprinkled with parsley and lemon zest in a cozy homemade setting.

Lemon Parmesan Recipe

Bright, creamy, and zesty — this Lemon Parmesan Recipe combines tangy lemon, savory parmesan, and aromatic garlic for a quick 25-minute meal that tastes restaurant-worthy. Perfect for pasta, chicken, or vegetables.
No ratings yet
Print Pin
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 480kcal
Cost: $10

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet or sauté pan 12-inch pan with high sides to toss pasta or chicken easily
  • 1 Microplane grater For fine lemon zest and freshly grated parmesan
  • 1 Whisk Prevents lumps when adding cheese
  • 1 Citrus juicer Extracts maximum juice without seeds
  • 1 Fine-mesh strainer Removes lemon seeds if needed
  • 1 Box grater For grating parmesan quickly and evenly
  • 1 Wooden spoon Ideal for stirring without scratching pans

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Freshly grated Parmesan cheese Grate fresh for best melting and flavor
  • 3 medium Lemons Use both zest and juice
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic for strong aroma
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil Use extra virgin for best flavor
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Use half-and-half for lighter version
  • 0.25 cup Fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness; basil can substitute
  • Salt and black pepper To taste, adjust gradually
  • Red pepper flakes (optional) Adds a gentle heat
  • 0.25 cup White wine (optional) Deglazes and adds flavor depth
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (optional) Enriches and smooths the sauce

Instructions

  • Zest and juice lemons, mince garlic, and grate parmesan.
  • Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  • Add garlic; cook 30 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  • Pour in white wine (optional) and let bubble for 1 minute.
  • Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Stir in lemon zest and juice gradually.
  • Reduce heat; whisk in parmesan cheese in small handfuls.
  • Stir until smooth and creamy; season with salt, pepper.
  • Add parsley and red pepper flakes.
  • Toss with pasta, chicken, or vegetables. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Nutrition

Serving: 220g | Calories: 480kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 115mg | Sodium: 480mg | Potassium: 160mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1300IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 350mg | Iron: 1mg