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; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving; Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love whipping up this Lemon Butter Tagliolini when I want to impress someone special without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh lemon juice, creamy butter, and the delicate texture of tagliolini creates a dish that's both elegant and comforting. Plus, it's quick to make, leaving us plenty of time to enjoy each other's company. I know that a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds that perfect finishing touch, making it a delightful meal for two.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:10:11.428Z

When I first tried making Lemon Butter Tagliolini, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create a dish that feels incredibly luxurious. The key is to use high-quality butter and fresh lemon juice, as these components truly enhance the flavors. I often find that taking the extra moment to zest the lemon before juicing yields the brightest flavor, making a noticeable difference in the final dish.

I remember serving this to a friend who was skeptical about a lemon-based pasta, but one bite changed everything. The balance of acidity from the lemon and richness from the butter is what makes this meal unforgettable. I suggest garnishing it with fresh herbs to really elevate the presentation and flavor.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your palate
Creamy butter sauce that clings perfectly to pasta
Quick and simple preparation, perfect for weeknights
Elegant enough for a romantic dinner or special occasion

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh lemon juice and zest is crucial in this Lemon Butter Tagliolini recipe. The zest adds a vibrant aroma and intense flavor that enhances the entire dish. When squeezing the lemon, roll it on the countertop first to maximize the juice yield. Choose ripe, juicy lemons for the best results—look for ones that feel heavy for their size and have a slight shine to the skin.

In addition, the quality of the butter cannot be overlooked. I recommend using unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish, which allows the bright lemon flavor to shine. Opt for a high-quality, European-style butter with a higher fat content for a richer sauce that feels luxurious on your palate.

Perfecting the Sauce Consistency

Achieving the perfect sauce consistency is vital for coating the delicate tagliolini. When adding the reserved pasta water, do so gradually—start with a couple of tablespoons and toss the pasta. Observe how the sauce clings to the noodles; you want it to be glossy and clingy rather than watery. Adjust with more water as needed, ensuring the final product has a luxurious feel without being overly greasy.

If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up, while if it's too loose, allowing it to simmer on medium-low heat for a minute can help it reduce and concentrate the flavors. It’s a balancing act, but with a little attention, you’ll achieve a wonderfully creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While Lemon Butter Tagliolini is delicious on its own, you can elevate the dish further by incorporating seasonal ingredients. Consider adding sautéed asparagus or peas for a pop of color and texture. A handful of fresh arugula mixed in just before serving brings a peppery bite that pairs wonderfully with the buttery sauce.

For those looking for a protein boost, grilled shrimp or sautéed chicken can be excellent additions. Simply cook them separately and toss them in with the pasta before serving. Garnish with extra lemon zest and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful pasta dish:

Ingredients

200g tagliolini pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), for garnish

Make sure to have these items ready before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Lemon Butter Tagliolini:

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, about 2-3 minutes. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the lemon juice and zest. Stir to combine, allowing it to heat through for a minute.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to achieve a creamy consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Plate the pasta, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Butter Tagliolini!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

Although this dish is best served fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up as necessary. Cook your tagliolini fresh for the best texture, but having the sauce premade can significantly cut down on prep time during a busy weeknight.

If you anticipate needing leftovers, consider doubling the recipe. Tagliolini reheats surprisingly well. Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy it within 2 days. When reheating, do so over low heat while adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Common Troubleshooting

If your sauce ends up excessively oily, it may be due to using too much butter or not incorporating enough pasta water to balance it. A good rule of thumb is to start with the recommended 4 tablespoons of butter and add water cautiously until you've reached that creamy texture. If you faced this issue, whisk in a bit more lemon juice for acidity that can help cut through the richness.

Another common issue could be overcooked pasta. Since tagliolini is very thin, it cooks quickly—pay close attention to the timing. Start checking at the 2-minute mark for a perfect al dente texture. Under-draining it slightly (keeping a bit of the starchy pasta water) can also help when mixing it with the sauce, avoiding dryness.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter alternative, you can substitute olive oil for butter, though it will alter the final flavor and richness. Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to maintain a luxurious mouthfeel. Moreover, to make the dish dairy-free, consider using a vegan butter alternative or skipping the cheese altogether, instead opting for a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

If you're looking to add a different flavor profile, try using herbs like lemon thyme or dill instead of parsley or basil. They will provide an aromatic touch that complements the lemon’s brightness and pairs nicely with the pasta. You can also play with different types of pasta; while tagliolini is traditional, linguine or fettuccine could also work beautifully in this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While tagliolini is ideal, any long pasta like spaghetti or linguine will work well.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A light salad or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments to balance the richness of the pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.