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Italian Lemon Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 62 reviews

This Italian Lemon Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines al dente pasta with the bright zest of lemon, smooth olive oil, and the savory depth of parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light, refreshing dish any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  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. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.
  2. Prepare the Lemon Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lemon zest and olive oil. Stir to blend the flavors.
  3. Toss the Pasta: Add the hot pasta to the bowl with lemon and oil. Toss vigorously to coat the pasta evenly. Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
  4. Add Parmesan and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss once more to combine all flavors evenly.
  5. Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with additional lemon zest or Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon zest for the brightest flavor; avoid the bitter white pith.
  • Reserve pasta water helps to create a silky sauce that clings well to the noodles.
  • Adjust the amount of Parmesan to your taste preference for a stronger or milder cheesy flavor.
  • Can be enhanced with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added color and aroma.
  • For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Keywords: Italian pasta, lemon pasta recipe, quick pasta dish, vegetarian pasta, easy lemon pasta, lemon zest pasta

Find it online: https://famdishes.com/italian-lemon-pasta-recipe/