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; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I want to impress someone special without spending all day in the kitchen, I turn to my Lemon Butter Tagliolini. The zesty flavor of lemon combined with the rich, velvety butter creates a deliciously simple sauce that beautifully coats the pasta. It comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for unexpected dinner guests or a cozy night in. Pair it with a glass of white wine, and you have a gourmet meal that feels luxurious yet effortless.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:49:10.029Z

During a recent dinner party, I decided to try out a new pasta dish. I wanted something light and flavorful, so I went for my Lemon Butter Tagliolini. The result was a vibrant meal that had everyone raving about the fresh lemon taste combined with a buttery richness. It was a delightful surprise that reminded me of summer evenings on the patio.

I highly recommend using fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. It elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. The balance of acid from the lemon and creaminess from the butter is simply divine and pairs well with a hint of black pepper.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Creamy, luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for a romantic dinner

      

Perfecting Your Pasta

Cooking the tagliolini to the right level of doneness is crucial for the overall texture of the dish. Aim for al dente, which usually means a slight bite in the center. Depending on the brand, this generally takes about 2-4 minutes. Make sure to taste a strand a minute before the package’s recommended cooking time to prevent overcooking. Overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy texture that won't hold up well in the sauce.

Using salted water is essential for adding an initial layer of flavor to the pasta. A good rule of thumb is to make the water taste like the sea, which can enhance the overall taste of the dish significantly. After cooking, reserving a cup of pasta water before draining is a smart move; this starchy water can help to emulsify and thicken your sauce as you combine the pasta with the lemon butter, creating a beautifully cohesive dish.

The Role of Ingredients

The freshness of the lemon is a star player in this recipe. Opt for organic lemons if possible, as they provide cleaner zest without the pesticide residues often found on conventional lemons. The zest is what contributes the essential oils and vibrant flavor that brightens the butter, so fresh zest really makes a difference. If you have extra lemons on hand, consider adding a splash of lemon zest as a garnish too, which will amplify the dish’s brightness.

Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the sauce, which is critical here since the pasta is already salted. A high-quality butter will also lend a deep, rich flavor that is key to making this simple dish really shine. If you're looking for a lighter twist, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil, maintaining the lemon flavor while still enjoying a luxurious mouthfeel.

Adjusting the Sauce

When preparing the sauce, keep an eye on the heat. You want the butter to melt gently without browning—that means medium to medium-low heat is your friend. If the butter starts to bubble vigorously, lower the heat to prevent it from developing an undesirable nutty flavor. A gentle heat ensures that the lemon juice can blend seamlessly with the butter without becoming bitter.

As you combine the pasta with the sauce, don’t rush the process. Tossing the pasta gently allows each strand to be coated thoroughly. If you find the sauce is too thick, gradually adding the reserved pasta water will help achieve the creaminess you're looking for. Start with a quarter cup and keep adding until you find the perfect consistency—glossy, yet not watery. Remember, the sauce should cling nicely to the pasta, not pool at the bottom of the plate.

Ingredients

Gather these items to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Tagliolini

200g tagliolini pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

With these ingredients in hand, you're ready to create a culinary masterpiece!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your dish.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tagliolini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of salt and black pepper, stirring to combine.

Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the butter sauce. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.

Serve

Divide the pasta into two plates, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Butter Tagliolini!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken to the dish. This will not only enhance the taste but also make it a heartier meal.

Make-Ahead Suggestions

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare elements in advance for convenience. The tagliolini can be cooked and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it's essential to toss it in a little olive oil before refrigerating to prevent sticking. The butter sauce can also be made ahead, though it's best to reheat it slowly over low heat to maintain its texture.

If you're hosting a dinner party and want to wow your guests, consider prepping the ingredients ahead of time. Zest and juice the lemon, chop the parsley, and measure out the butter. This way, when it’s time to cook, you can assemble everything in under 20 minutes and serve a dish that appears to be intricately made and delicious.

Serving Variations

Pairing this Lemon Butter Tagliolini with proteins can transform it into a heartier meal. Grilled shrimp or pan-seared scallops complement the citrusy flavors beautifully. Just sauté them in a bit of olive oil before tossing them with the pasta for a complete dish. If seafood isn’t your thing, consider pairing with sautéed asparagus or broccoli for a fresh, vibrant addition.

For an extra touch of decadence, finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, which adds a fruity note that balances perfectly with the sharpness of the lemon. You can even experiment by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a handful of pine nuts for crunch—these variations can elevate this simple recipe into an impressive meal fit for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute tagliolini with other types of pasta like fettuccine or linguine, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little added water or butter.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a plant-based version.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.