Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the bright and zesty flavors of Pasta al Limone! This Italian classic is not just a dish; it's a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a creamy, lemon-infused delight that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 25 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, this Lemon Pasta recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 2 lemons (juice and zest)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Zest the lemons and then juice them, ensuring you have enough juice for the recipe. Set aside the zest and juice for later use.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir gently to combine.
- Gradually add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, mixing well to incorporate the flavors. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the lemon cream sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to toss the pasta until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Once the pasta is well coated and creamy, remove it from the heat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Pasta al Limone with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh lemons instead of bottled juice. The zest is crucial for that vibrant lemony aroma and taste!
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente. This means it should have a slight bite to it, which will help it hold up better when tossed in the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta cooking water before draining! This starchy water can help adjust the sauce's consistency and ensure it clings perfectly to the pasta.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half. You can also add more lemon juice for an extra zing!
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil adds a lovely touch of color and flavor. Don’t skimp on the garnish—add extra Parmesan cheese for a rich finish!
- Pair It Right: Serve your Pasta al Limone with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of chilled white wine also complements it beautifully!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 255kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 30mg
