Perfect Pasta with Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Alfredo sauce is a rich and creamy Italian pasta sauce that can be prepared easily at home. This dish is often enjoyed in Italian restaurants but creating it yourself ensures you know exactly what goes into the sauce, making it healthier. The recipe here yields enough for 4 servings and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare.

For a traditional Alfredo sauce, you will need:

1. 2 tablespoons of butter
2. 1 small garlic clove, minced finely
3. 1 teaspoon of lemon zest (optional but recommended)
4. 4 ounces of heavy cream
5. Salt to taste
6. Freshly ground black pepper to taste
7. Noodles or pasta of your choice - we suggest fettuccine for this dish as it pairs well with the creamy sauce

To prepare, start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the boiling water according to your preference and cook the noodles until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain the cooked pasta but save about half a cup of the cooking liquid.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant - around one minute. Do not let it brown as this will burn the garlic. Once the butter is melted and garlic is aromatic, stir in heavy cream and lemon zest (if using). Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes or until slightly thickened.

Meanwhile, add a handful of salted water to the pasta you have reserved from draining. Return this to the pot with the sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly so that all strands are coated evenly with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more cream, salt, or pepper if necessary. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for additional flavor.

Once fully combined, pour the pasta into a serving dish and let it rest for about 5 minutes before eating. This allows time for flavors to meld together perfectly in each bite. Serve immediately while hot!

This homemade Alfredo sauce is not only delicious but also quite simple to make. It pairs wonderfully with various types of pasta, especially when you're looking for something comforting yet elegant on a cold evening. If desired, this dish can be made vegetarian by substituting the butter with olive oil and using a variety of fresh vegetables as garnishes instead of meat.

Alfredo sauce, when enjoyed in moderation alongside whole wheat noodles or other nutritious grains, can complement an overall balanced meal plan. It is rich in fats from both the cream and butter used; hence it's important to keep portion sizes reasonable for those watching their calorie intake.

Cooking time: Approximately 30 minutesNumber of servings: Serves 4