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Creamy Cilantro Lime Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that beautifully marries the richness of cream with the refreshing zest of lime and the aromatic freshness of cilantro. This pasta dish stands out not just for its delightful taste but also for its striking visual appeal, making it an enticing choice for any culinary occasion—from a cozy weeknight dinner to an impressive dish for gatherings and celebrations. The creamy texture of the sauce envelops the pasta, while the bright notes of lime cut through the richness, creating a balanced flavor profile that is both comforting and invigorating.

Creamy Cilantro Lime Pasta

Discover the vibrant flavors of Creamy Cilantro Lime Pasta with this easy recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes. This dish perfectly balances rich, creamy sauce with zesty lime and fresh cilantro for a satisfying meal any night of the week. Choose your favorite pasta and customize it with proteins or veggies to suit your taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this pasta is both comforting and invigorating. Try it today for an unforgettable dining experience!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340 g) linguine or fettuccine

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus additional for garnish)

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

1 teaspoon lime zest

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Optional: sliced cherry tomatoes and diced avocado for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta, making sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for later use.

    Prepare the Sauce: In a spacious skillet set over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.

      Make it Creamy: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and carefully pour in the heavy cream. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, freshly squeezed lime juice, and zesty lime peel. Keep stirring until the cheese melts thoroughly and the sauce transforms into a silky, creamy texture.

        Season it Up: Introduce the chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper into your creamy mixture. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, allowing the bright flavors to shine through.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, incorporate the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your preferred consistency. Gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the luscious sauce.

            Serve: Dish out the creamy cilantro lime pasta onto plates. For an extra touch, garnish with additional cilantro, vibrant slices of cherry tomatoes, and creamy diced avocado if you like. Serve immediately and relish each flavorful bite!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings