Pasta al Limone: A Refreshing Italian Classic

Pasta al Limone, or lemon pasta, is a delightful Italian dish that brings a burst of freshness to your dinner table. This dish is incredibly simple yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a dinner party. From my own personal experience, the bright and zesty flavors of lemon paired with creamy sauce make it a favorite among both adults and kids alike. Let me show you how I make this delightful dish step by step.

Notes on What to Expect

When you make Pasta al Limone, expect a dish that is creamy, tangy, and bursting with the fresh flavor of lemon. The balance of richness from the cream and brightness from the lemon creates a comforting yet invigorating meal. This dish is incredibly quick to whip up, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400
• Cost of Ingredients: $8 – $12 (depending on local prices)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or frying pan
• Zester or grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs or pasta fork
• Serving bowl
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Ingredients

• Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Lemon Juice: Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
• Lemon Zest: Zest of 1 lemon
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (plus extra for serving)
• Salt: To taste
• Black Pepper: To taste
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish (optional)
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Method

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
3. Combine Lemon and Cream:
   • Add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, stirring well. Then pour in the heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add Cheese:
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Mix with Pasta:
   • Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the lemon sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
6. Serve:
   • Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your Pasta al Limone!

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for added protein.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the cream for a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or coconut milk.
• Zestier Flavor: For a bolder lemon flavor, add additional lemon juice or zest to taste.
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Tips and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
• Nut-Free: Ensure the Parmesan is nut-free or use a nutritional yeast alternative.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: ~12g
• Carbohydrates: ~60g
• Fat: ~15g
• Fiber: ~2g

Closing Thoughts

I hope this guide has made making Pasta al Limone seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I love to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment. Happy cooking!