Name: Creamy Lemon Caper Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or extra-virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ tablespoon arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, or cornstarch; 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth; ½ cup skim or 2% milk; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (0% or 2%); ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 3 – 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 – 2 lemons); ½ teaspoon fresh lemon zest; 1 teaspoon salt, to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste; 2 – 3 tablespoons capers, liquid drained

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 6 reviews

If you crave a dish that’s both bursting with bright flavors and wonderfully comforting, this Creamy Lemon Caper Pasta Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a quick, zesty pasta tossed in a light yet luscious cream sauce made from skim milk, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and parmesan. The capers add a salty tang that perfectly balances the silky texture and citrusy notes. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish turns an ordinary weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering experience you’ll want to share with everyone you know.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round pot filled with a smooth, creamy mixture that is light beige in color with swirls of white cream on top. A wooden spoon with a darkened tip is resting inside the pot, slightly covered in the creamy mix. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, which creates a clean and bright background. The texture of the mixture appears thick and velvety, gently folded together with the cream swirls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Creamy Lemon Caper Pasta Recipe is simple but essential, each playing its role to create that perfect harmony of taste, creaminess, and vibrant color.

10 oz pasta (spaghetti or angel hair): Choose delicate strands that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully without overpowering it.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter or extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently cook the garlic for that fragrant start.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic punch.
1 ½ tablespoon arrowroot powder, tapioca starch or cornstarch: The secret to a silky, thickened sauce without heaviness.
1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base for your luscious lemon cream sauce.
½ cup milk (skim or 2%): Keeps the creaminess light yet satisfying.
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (0% or 2%): Adds tangy creaminess and contributes to the protein-packed goodness.
¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Brings in a nutty flavor and melts into silky perfection.
3–4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (1–2 lemons): The star citrus element, providing bright acidity and freshness.
½ teaspoon fresh lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor with just a touch of fragrant oils.
1 teaspoon salt, to taste: Enhances and balances all the vibrant flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste: Adds just enough spice to round out the dish.
2–3 tablespoons capers, liquid drained: These little bursts of tang elevate the pasta with their briny punch.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Caper Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your pasta. Cook it until al dente, just tender but still with a slight bite, then strain and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and ensures your pasta won’t get mushy. Setting it aside will have it ready to mingle beautifully with the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Thickening Mixture

In a small bowl or glass, whisk together your arrowroot powder and the vegetable broth. This mixture will thicken the sauce and keep it silky smooth without any floury taste, making the sauce lighter and more vibrant.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Heat butter or olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Stir it constantly and cook until fragrant, which happens quickly—between 30 seconds and a minute. This step builds a wonderful aroma that hints at what’s coming.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce Base

Add the arrowroot and broth mixture along with the milk to the garlic pan. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps and increase the heat to medium-high. Let it simmer gently, whisking every 20 seconds, until the mixture thickens into a luscious base—this usually takes 2 to 4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Yogurt, Cheese, and Lemon

Lower the heat to medium-low, then whisk in the Greek yogurt, parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. This combination brings creaminess, tang, and salty depth, transforming the sauce into something irresistible.

Step 6: Stir in the Capers and Pasta

Finally, fold in the drained capers, giving the sauce a bright, briny kick. Then add the cooked pasta and toss everything with tongs until each strand is beautifully coated with that creamy, lemony goodness. It’s ready to enjoy immediately or dress up with your favorite toppings.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Caper Pasta Recipe

A white round plate is filled with creamy spaghetti noodles that have a smooth, shiny texture. The noodles form a loose pile in the center, with some lightly coated in a pale sauce. Small green capers are scattered across the pasta, adding some bits of color and texture. A quarter of a bright yellow lemon wedge rests on the edge of the plate. A silver fork, held by a woman's hand from the right side, twirls a small nest of noodles with some capers caught in between. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a light striped cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make this pasta even more special, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, extra parmesan cheese, or a few more capers. These simple touches enhance the freshness and give your plate an inviting pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or some oven-roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. The freshness of the sides balances the richness of the pasta sauce perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Creamy Lemon Caper Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls to showcase its vibrant sauce. For a fun twist, top with a handful of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. You can also experiment by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost that keeps the lemony vibe intact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two or three days. Keep the sauce nicely sealed to preserve its freshness and prevent the pasta from drying out or absorbing unwanted fridge odors.

Freezing

While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Use a freezer-safe container and note that the texture might change slightly upon thawing, especially because of the yogurt. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat your pasta on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave it covered with a damp paper towel to keep the pasta moist and creamy. Stir occasionally to evenly warm the dish without curdling the yogurt.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti or angel hair work beautifully for a delicate texture, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Greek yogurt necessary for this sauce?

Greek yogurt is key for its creamy texture and tangy flavor that complement the lemon and capers. If you don’t have it, a mild plain yogurt can work, but avoid flavored varieties.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk and swap the parmesan for a vegan cheese alternative. Use a dairy-free yogurt to maintain creaminess.

How can I intensify the lemon flavor?

Adding extra lemon zest or a bit more fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish even more. Just be careful not to overpower the capers’ briny notes.

What do I do if my sauce curdles?

If the sauce separates, it’s usually because the heat was too high when adding yogurt. To prevent this, always reduce heat before mixing in the yogurt and stir gently and continuously.

Final Thoughts

You simply have to try this Creamy Lemon Caper Pasta Recipe if you want a meal that feels both fresh and indulgent but comes together quickly with everyday ingredients. It’s bright, tangy, and downright satisfying — the kind of dish that becomes an instant favorite whether for busy weeknights or special dinners. Once you make it, I’m pretty sure it’ll hold a permanent spot in your recipe rotation too.