Creamy Lemon & Thyme Pasta
A quick and elegant pasta dish featuring a luscious, no-cook sauce made from creamy mascarpone, bright lemon, and aromatic fresh thyme, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
For 2 servings
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
While the pasta cooks, prepare your ingredients: finely zest the entire lemon, then halve it and set aside. Pick the fresh thyme leaves from their stems. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
Before draining, reserve about 1 cup (240ml) of the starchy pasta cooking water. Drain the linguine thoroughly.
Return the hot, drained pasta to the empty pot (off the heat). Immediately add the mascarpone, lemon zest, fresh thyme leaves, and a generous squeeze of juice from half the lemon.
Add about 1/4 cup (60ml) of the reserved pasta water and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt (taste first, as pasta water and Parmesan are salty).
Toss vigorously and continuously with tongs for 1-2 minutes. The residual heat from the pasta will melt the mascarpone, and the pasta water will emulsify with it to create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every strand.
If the sauce seems too thick, add more reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with extra fresh thyme leaves, a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, and a final drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't rinse your pasta after draining; the starch clinging to the pasta helps the sauce adhere better and emulsify more effectively.
- 2Use good quality mascarpone cheese for the best flavor and creamiest texture. It melts beautifully into the sauce.
- 3Always reserve more pasta water than you think you'll need. It's your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- 4Taste and adjust seasoning frequently. The saltiness of the pasta water and Parmesan can vary, so always taste before adding more salt.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Stir in cooked shredded chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pan-fried pancetta for a heartier meal.
Seasonal VegetablesSeasonal Vegetables
Incorporate blanched asparagus tips, fresh peas, or sautéed spinach during the last minute of tossing for added freshness and nutrients.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley in place of or in addition to thyme for a different aromatic profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Energy Boost
Pasta provides complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy for daily activities.
Vitamin C from Lemon
Lemon zest and juice contribute Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Antioxidants from Thyme
Fresh thyme is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
While cream cheese can be used in a pinch, mascarpone offers a richer, sweeter, and smoother texture. Cream cheese has a tangier flavor and firmer consistency, which will result in a different, less delicate sauce.
