Step 1

Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package directions, or until al dente.

Step 2

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large frying pan over low-medium heat. Fry the garlic in the butter for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the cream to the pan along with the lemon zest and juice. Whisk for a minute or so to combine and heat through.

Step 4

Add the grated parmesan and mix everything together until the sauce is smooth. Season well with black pepper to taste.

Step 5

Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving 1 cup of pasta cooking water.

Step 6

Add the spaghetti to the creamy lemon sauce in the pan and mix, adding pasta water as needed until the spaghetti is coated and glossy.

Step 7

Top with fresh basil, as well as extra black pepper and parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.