Lemon Basil Alfredo Sauce

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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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.

Ingredients for Lemon Basil Alfredo Sauce

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.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
  • If your sauce gets too thick, thin it with a little pasta water.
  • Adjust the lemon juice to suit your taste; start with one tablespoon and add more if desired.

Serving Suggestions

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil is recommended for its bright flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Start with one teaspoon and adjust to taste.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up if needed.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich. For a non-dairy option, try coconut cream, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Lemon Basil Alfredo Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

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.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A zesty twist on a beloved classic.
  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Pairs beautifully with a variety of pasta and proteins.
  • Uses fresh ingredients for a more vibrant flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts completely and creates a smooth sauce.
4. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring well to incorporate the citrus flavors.
5. Toss in the chopped fresh basil and ground black pepper, stirring for an additional minute.
6. Remove the sauce from heat and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately over your choice of cooked pasta.

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