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Tagliatelle with Lemon

This creamy lemon tagliatelle is a bright and refreshing vegetarian pasta dish that celebrates simple, high-quality ingredients. The sauce is built on a base of zesty lemon peel and rich crème fraîche, creating a silky coating for the pasta that feels indulgent yet light. By gently heating the zest in olive oil, you unlock a deep citrus aroma that perfectly balances the saltiness of the aged Parmesan cheese.

Ideal for a quick weeknight supper or a sophisticated weekend lunch, this recipe is a fantastic staple for your repertoire. The sharp acidity of the fresh lemon juice cuts through the cream beautifully, making it a wonderful transition dish for any season. Serve it immediately while the sauce is at its most velvety, perhaps with a simple green salad on the side.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Tagliatelle with Lemon

  • 350g tagliatelle

  • 4 lemons

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 170g crème fraîche

  • 110g Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and freshly ground pepper

How to make Tagliatelle with Lemon

  1. Cook the tagliatelle in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain.

  2. While the pasta is cooking, grate the zest of lemons and squeeze and reserve the juice of 1 lemon.

  3. In a saucepan, warm up the olive oil, add the zest, and cook over low flame for 2 minutes. Add the crème fraîche and bring to a boil; pour in the reserved lemon juice and bring to a boil again.

  4. When the cream starts to thicken, add the Parmesan, season to taste, mix well, and cook for another minute. Add the drained pasta and toss to mix. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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