Meet your new favorite pasta topping: Lemon Basil Alfredo Sauce. It's rich, creamy, and delightfully refreshing thanks to a splash of lemon and fresh basil. Perfect for those who want a twist on the classic Alfredo.
Heavy cream is the base of our sauce, providing that essential creamy texture. Unsalted butter adds richness, allowing you to control the saltiness of the dish. Grated Parmesan cheese is key for that classic Alfredo taste, melting into the cream and butter to create a luscious sauce. Lemon zest and lemon juice bring a bright, tangy kick that balances the richness. Fresh basil gives a fragrant, herbal note, while ground black pepper adds a hint of spice to finish. Finally, salt is used to taste, so you can adjust the seasoning to your preference.
This sauce pairs wonderfully with fettuccine or linguine, but don't stop there. Try it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. A side of roasted asparagus or a simple green salad makes a fresh, balanced plate.
Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. Add the unsalted butter and place it over medium heat. Watch it melt down into a lovely pool of liquid gold. Once melted, stir in the heavy cream. Keep a gentle simmer going, which helps everything blend together smoothly.
Now, it's time to add the cheesy goodness. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Do this slowly to ensure it melts completely, creating a smooth, velvety sauce. Stir continuously for the best results.
Next, add in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir them in well; you'll start to smell that wonderful citrus aroma. Toss in the chopped fresh basil and ground black pepper. Give it a good stir for about a minute to let all those flavors mingle.
Finally, take the saucepan off the heat and season with salt to taste. Your sauce is ready to serve! Pour it generously over your favorite cooked pasta.