Lemon Pepper Pasta with Parmigiano Reggiano

Name: Lemon Pepper Pasta with Parmigiano Reggiano
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano (freshly grated); 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); to taste salt; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

25 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Savour the bright and zesty flavours of lemon paired with the rich umami of Parmigiano Reggiano in this easy and elegant pasta dish.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Pasta dishes are a staple in many homes due to their versatility and ease of preparation. This Lemon Pepper Pasta with Parmigiano Reggiano is a delightful combination of simple ingredients that create a sophisticated flavour profile. The tangy lemon, sharp black pepper, and nutty cheese come together to elevate your everyday pasta into a gourmet experience. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. It celebrates the fresh and bold flavours of lemon and the rich creaminess of Parmigiano Reggiano, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Pro tip: Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency.

Prepare the sauce

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will become bitter.

Add lemon

Stir in the lemon zest and juice, cooking for an additional minute to infuse the flavours.

Pro tip: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavour.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.

Add cheese and pepper

Sprinkle in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and black pepper. Toss again, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.

Serve

Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional grated cheese if desired.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavour.
Grate Parmigiano Reggiano just before using for optimal texture.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency.
Season the pasta generously with black pepper for a spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are pâtes au citron?

Pâtes au citron are lemon-flavoured pasta dishes often enhanced with ingredients like pepper and cheese.

How can I make lemon pasta creamy?

Use reserved pasta water and Parmigiano Reggiano to create a creamy sauce.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or linguine.

What is the best cheese for this dish?

Parmigiano Reggiano is recommended for its rich flavour and texture.

How do I zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater to remove the outer yellow layer of the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemon Pepper Pasta with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the citrus notes beautifully. To make ahead, prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat gently before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

16g

Protein

18g

Fat

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Medium25 min

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