Lemon Butter Tagliolini for Two

Name: Lemon Butter Tagliolini for Two
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g tagliolini pasta; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely adore making Lemon Butter Tagliolini for Two whenever I'm looking for a quick yet indulgent dish. The creamy, tangy sauce pairs beautifully with the fresh pasta, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The simplicity of the recipe allows me to highlight the vibrant flavors of lemon and butter, while the addition of fresh herbs elevates the dish even more. It's an impressive way to enjoy a comforting bowl of pasta without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:52:07.565Z

When I first created this Lemon Butter Tagliolini, I was inspired by the need for a meal that was both comforting and refreshing. I experimented with various citrus flavors and finally settled on lemon, which adds that perfect zing. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance; it’s rich yet light, and the fresh herbs provide a lovely aromatic experience.

One tip I learned during my kitchen escapades is to keep the pasta water handy. Using it to thin out the sauce ensures that it clings beautifully to the tagliolini, enhancing every bite. It’s a simple trick that makes all the difference in achieving that luxurious texture!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The harmonious blend of lemon and butter creates a luxurious sauce.
Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner date.

      

The Role of Ingredients

The tagliolini pasta is essential for this dish, as its thin and delicate texture allows it to absorb the lemon butter sauce beautifully. If you don't have tagliolini on hand, you can substitute with other fresh pasta varieties like fettuccine or linguine, but be mindful of cooking times, as they might differ slightly.

Using high-quality unsalted butter is crucial here; it not only enriches the sauce but also highlights the fresh lemon flavor. Opting for a good brand can make a big difference in the creaminess and overall taste of the dish. Similarly, using fresh lemon juice and zest ensures that the flavors are bright and vibrant, lifting the entire meal.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve a perfectly emulsified sauce, it's important to toss the tagliolini in the skillet right after draining. This avoids excess heat loss and helps the sauce cling to the pasta. If the sauce feels too thin, a quick splash of the reserved pasta water can bring it to the desired creaminess, so don't hesitate to adjust as you go.

When sautéing the lemon zest and juice in butter, keep the heat at medium. This allows the butter to melt slowly while releasing the citrus oils without browning. If the butter starts to bubble aggressively, reduce the heat to avoid burning; a gentle sizzle is what you want for a luscious, glossy sauce.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

200g tagliolini pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliolini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 6-8 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the tagliolini.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained tagliolini to the skillet, tossing to coat in the lemon-butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.

Serve

Plate the tagliolini and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this delicious dish hot!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time. Simply melt the butter and stir in the lemon zest and juice, then store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet before tossing in the freshly cooked pasta.

If you're making a larger batch, consider doubling the recipe. The sauce can be maintained easily, but be cautious with cooking times for the pasta. Fresh pasta cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't overcook. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Butter Tagliolini pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, whose peppery notes complement the lemony pasta. Additionally, consider adding grilled shrimp or sautéed scallops on top for a seafood twist that brings even more luxury to the dish.

A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile, adding a hint of heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. For an Italian flair, consider serving it alongside crusty garlic bread or a glass of chilled white wine, enhancing the dining experience with complementary flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While tagliolini is traditional for this dish, any long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine works just as well.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the butter with vegan butter and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What should I serve with Lemon Butter Tagliolini?

A simple green salad or grilled vegetables would complement this dish nicely.