Pasta with Lemon Recipe

Elevate your taste buds with our delightful Pasta with Lemon recipe. Tangy citrus meets savory perfection. A refreshing twist to pasta night!

Pasta With Lemon

• Publisher: Crisp Recipe
• Cuisine: Italian
• Category: Main Course
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 400 calories

Pasta with lemon is a culinary masterpiece that effortlessly combines simplicity with vibrant flavors. This dish, rooted in Italian cuisine, captures the essence of freshness and zest, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a light and flavorful meal.

The preparation is a symphony of basic yet essential ingredients. The pasta, whether it's spaghetti or linguine, serves as the canvas for the magic to unfold. The star of the show is undoubtedly the lemon – its juice and zest infuse the dish with a bright, citrusy kick that elevates the entire flavor profile. The olive oil and minced garlic create a fragrant base, providing a savory undertone to complement the tangy notes of the lemon.

The process is a culinary dance: the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, then seamlessly integrated into a pan where garlic sizzles in olive oil. The lemon zest and juice join the party, creating a symphony of aromas that waft through the kitchen. The addition of Parmesan cheese brings a creamy richness, tying all the elements together.

Served garnished with fresh parsley, this pasta with lemon is not just a meal; it's an experience. Each forkful is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes – the tender pasta, the zesty lemon, and the umami from the Parmesan. It's a dish that speaks to the heart of Italian cuisine, where simplicity and quality ingredients reign supreme.

Whether enjoyed on a cozy weeknight or presented as a centerpiece at a dinner gathering, pasta with lemon is a culinary journey that transports your taste buds to a place of pure satisfaction. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary dishes arise from the marriage of a few humble ingredients and a touch of culinary finesse.

Recipe

Dive into a culinary adventure with our zesty Pasta with Lemon recipe! Discover the perfect balance of citrusy freshness and savory indulgence. Let's cook!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (about 225g) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti or linguine work well)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 to 2 lemons (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup (about 50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Method Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
4. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
5. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
6. Add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the pan with garlic and olive oil.
7. Toss the pasta to coat it evenly with the garlic-infused oil.
8. Sprinkle lemon zest over the pasta and squeeze in the lemon juice.
9. Toss again to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the lemony goodness.
10. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
11. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water gradually until you achieve the desired sauce consistency.
12. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy texture.
13. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
14. Plate the pasta, giving it a final drizzle of olive oil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
15. Serve immediately and savor the vibrant flavors of your pasta with lemon!

Recipe Video

Pasta With Lemon

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Recipe Tags: Pasta With Lemon, Pasta With Lemon Recipe, Recipe

Servings

Serving pasta with lemon is a delightful experience that involves presenting the dish with flair to complement its vibrant flavors. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to serve pasta with lemon:

• Plating: Begin by carefully twirling a generous portion of the lemon-infused pasta using tongs or a pasta fork. Create a visually appealing nest of pasta in the center of each plate.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: For a finishing touch, drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil over the plated pasta. This not only adds a glossy sheen but also enhances the richness of the dish.
• Parmesan Sprinkle: Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the pasta. The warmth of the pasta will slightly melt the cheese, creating a creamy texture that perfectly complements the lemony zest.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle a handful of chopped fresh parsley over the pasta. The vibrant green color adds a pop of freshness, and the herbaceous flavor complements the citrus notes of the lemon.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve the pasta with lemon wedges on the side. This allows individuals to customize the level of citrus flavor to their liking. A squeeze of fresh lemon just before eating can enhance the dish.
• Accompaniments: Consider serving the pasta with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce, while the salad provides a refreshing contrast.
• Pairing Suggestions: If you're serving this dish as part of a larger meal, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine or sparkling water. The effervescence complements the bright flavors of the lemon.
• Presentation Matters: Pay attention to the presentation of the dish on the plate. A well-arranged and visually appealing presentation enhances the overall dining experience.

Tips

1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemons, and good-quality Parmesan cheese. The simplicity of the dish relies on the excellence of its components.
2. Balance Flavors: Achieve a harmonious balance between the lemon's acidity, the savory notes of garlic, and the richness of Parmesan. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
3. Lemon Zest Technique: When zesting the lemon, be cautious not to include the bitter white pith. A fine grater or microplane works well for obtaining just the fragrant outer layer.
4. Al Dente Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente. This ensures a perfect texture and prevents the dish from becoming overly soft or mushy.
5. Reserved Pasta Water: Save some of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be used to adjust the sauce's consistency and helps it adhere better to the pasta.
6. Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. It's a versatile dish that welcomes personalization.
7. Fresh Herbs: While parsley is a classic choice, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or thyme to add depth to the flavor profile.
8. Serve Immediately: Pasta is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve immediately after tossing with the lemon sauce to experience the optimal combination of textures and flavors.
9. Prep Work: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. This ensures a smooth process and prevents any rushing during the cooking stages.
10. Experiment with Pasta Shapes: While spaghetti or linguine is traditional, don't hesitate to try different pasta shapes. The sauce can cling differently to various shapes, offering a unique dining experience.
11. Lemon Wedges on the Side: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows individuals to adjust the level of citrus according to their preference.
12. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutes

If you find yourself missing some ingredients for pasta with lemon, here are some substitutes you can consider:

1. Pasta: Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. If you don't have spaghetti or linguine, other shapes like fettuccine, penne, or even bowties can work well.
2. Olive Oil: Substitute with other cooking oils like grapeseed oil, canola oil, or even melted butter for a slightly different flavor profile.
3. Garlic: If fresh garlic is unavailable, you can use garlic powder or granules. Adjust the quantity to taste, as the dried form is more concentrated.
4. Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is ideal, but if you don't have lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust accordingly.
5. Lemon Zest: In the absence of fresh lemons, you can use dried lemon zest, which is available in the spice section of most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can omit it if necessary.
6. Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good alternatives to Parmesan. If you're looking for a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can provide a similar umami flavor.
7. Fresh Parsley: Substitute with other fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or chives. Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs will impart a more vibrant flavor.
8. Protein Additions: Customize the dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for added depth and variety.
9. Salt and Pepper: If you're out of black pepper, white pepper works as a substitute. Ensure you have a balanced seasoning to enhance the overall flavor.
10. Pasta Cooking Water: If you forget to reserve pasta cooking water, you can use regular water or vegetable broth to adjust the sauce's consistency.

Remarks

Savor the vibrant symphony of flavors in every bite of your homemade Pasta with Lemon. A culinary journey that leaves you craving more. Buon Appetito!