Indulge in a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy! Our Easy Creamy Garlic Lemon Pasta with Crab is not just a dish; it’s an experience that combines the rich flavors of succulent crab meat with the zesty brightness of lemon and the comforting creaminess of a well-crafted sauce. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is both simple and sophisticated, making it a must-try for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup crab meat
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of pasta of your choice. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine and allow it to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
- After the cream has thickened, add the juice of 1 lemon to the skillet, stirring well to incorporate. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Next, gently fold in the 1 cup of crab meat, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the sauce. Allow the mixture to heat through for another 2-3 minutes, taking care not to overcook the crab.
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the creamy crab sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Finally, stir in the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta works, opt for shapes like fettuccine or linguine that can hold onto the creamy sauce better, enhancing each bite.
- Don't Rush the Garlic: Sauté the minced garlic just until fragrant. Overcooking can lead to bitterness, so keep a close eye on it!
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a magical ingredient that can help adjust the sauce's consistency. Add it gradually to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Quality Crab Meat: For the best flavor, use fresh or high-quality canned crab meat. This will elevate your dish and provide a delightful seafood experience.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. The flavor should be balanced and bright, thanks to the lemon juice.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!
- Pair with Wine: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the dish perfectly and elevates your dining experience.Enjoy cooking this delightful recipe, and watch as it becomes a favorite among family and friends!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 590kcal
Carbohydrates: 56g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 150mg
