Lemon Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

A white plate of lemon angel hair pasta garnished with chopped parsley, lemon zest, and cracked black pepper sits on a yellow napkin, with a fork resting on the side of the plate.

Lemon Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

This Lemon Angel Hair Pasta recipe is so incredibly simple to make and is loaded with buttery fresh lemon flavor. Make it protein packed with some grilled chicken on top and dinner is served.

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings Servings

Author Heather

Equipment

Ingredients

1 lb dried angel hair pasta capellini
2 sticks unsalted butter 1/2 lb
2 large lemons zested and juiced
2 ½ tbsp kosher salt divided
½ tsp ground black pepper freshly cracked
1 tbsp Italian parsley minced
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes optional

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Bring a large stock pot of water to a boil. Add 2 tablespoons kosher salt and dried angel hair pasta. Cook according to package directions, or until desired tenderness. Reserve 1 cup of cooking liquid.
In a large skillet over medium low heat, add the butter and heat until melted. Add the lemon juice, most of the lemon zest (reserve some for serving), 1/2 tsp salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until combined.
Transfer cooked pasta with tongs or a spider to the butter mixture. Add 1/2 cup of pasta water and toss to combine. If it's too dry, or you'd like it saucier, add the remaining 1/2 cup of water. The pasta will continue to absorb the liquid, so the saucier to start, the better.
Sprinkle with minced parsley and remaining lemon zest, divide and serve immediately.

Nutrition