This gremolata pasta is a vibrant and zesty dish that brings together the freshness of citrus and the aromatic flavors of garlic and parsley. It's a perfect light yet flavorful meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch.
Photos of Gremolata Pasta Recipe
Some of the ingredients in this gremolata pasta, like flat leaf parsley and orange zest, may not be common in every household. When heading to the supermarket, make sure to pick fresh parsley and a couple of oranges to get the zest. Using fresh ingredients will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
Ingredients for Gremolata Pasta Recipe
Lemon zest: Grated lemon peel that adds a bright and tangy flavor.
Orange zest: Grated orange peel that contributes a subtle sweetness and citrus aroma.
Garlic: Adds a pungent and savory taste to the dish.
Flat leaf parsley: Provides a fresh, herbal note and vibrant green color.
Lemon juice: Enhances the tangy flavor and adds a bit of acidity.
Salt: Brings out the flavors of all the ingredients.
Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
Olive oil: A rich, smooth oil that helps to meld all the flavors together.
Linguine: A long, flat pasta that pairs well with light sauces.
One reader, Giraud Abernathy says:
This gremolata pasta recipe is a burst of fresh flavors! The citrus zest and garlic blend perfectly with the parsley and olive oil. It's simple yet incredibly delicious. A new favorite in my household!
Essential Techniques for Gremolata Pasta Recipe
How to zest citrus: Use a microplane or fine grater to remove the outermost layer of the lemon and orange, avoiding the bitter white pith. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and finely chop them using a knife or garlic press. How to chop parsley: Wash and dry the parsley, then finely chop the leaves, discarding the stems. How to cook pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the pasta until al dente, usually about 12 minutes for linguine.
How To Make Gremolata Pasta
This gremolata pasta is made with a green sauce of parsley mixed with orange and lemon. It adds a zesty twist to your usual pasta dishes!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tsplemon zest,(from 2 large lemons)
- 2tsporange zest,(from 1 large orange)
- 4clovesgarlic
- 1cupflat leaf parsley,chopped
- 1½tsplemon juice
- ¾tspsalt
- ¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- ½cupolive oil
- 1lblinguine
Instructions
-
In a small glass or stainless-steel bowl, mix together the grated lemon and orange zest, the garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
-
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook for about 12 minutes the linguine until just done.
-
Drain and toss with the sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: 671.57kcal
- Fat: 28.86g
- Saturated Fat: 4.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 19.94g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.51g
- Carbohydrates: 87.27g
- Fiber: 4.45g
- Sugar: 3.28g
- Protein: 15.48g
- Sodium: 377.86mg
- Calcium: 54.30mg
- Potassium: 356.44mg
- Iron: 2.64mg
- Vitamin A: 63.44µg
- Vitamin C: 24.27mg
How To Make Linguine with Gremolada
This catfish stew is packed with spiced bell pepper, beans, and corn simmered in an herby broth with a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tsplemon zest,(from 2 large lemons)
- 2tsporange zest,(from 1 large orange)
- 4clovesgarlic
- 1cupflat leaf parsley,chopped
- 1½tsplemon juice
- ¾tspsalt
- ¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- ½cupolive oil
- 1lblinguine
Instructions
-
In a small glass or stainless-steel bowl, mix together the grated lemon and orange zest, the garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
-
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook for about 12 minutes the linguine until just done.
-
Drain and toss with the sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: 671.57kcal
- Fat: 28.86g
- Saturated Fat: 4.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 19.94g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.51g
- Carbohydrates: 87.27g
- Fiber: 4.45g
- Sugar: 3.28g
- Protein: 15.48g
- Sodium: 377.86mg
- Calcium: 54.30mg
- Potassium: 356.44mg
- Iron: 2.64mg
- Vitamin A: 63.44µg
- Vitamin C: 24.27mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Gremolata Pasta Recipe
When zesting lemon and orange, make sure to only grate the colorful outer layer and avoid the white pith underneath, as it can be bitter. Use a microplane or fine grater for best results.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Gremolata Pasta
Prep ingredients in advance: Grate the lemon zest and orange zest, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley ahead of time.
Use a food processor: Quickly combine the zests, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a food processor for a fast sauce.
Boil water early: Start boiling the water while prepping other ingredients to save time.
Multitask: Cook the linguine while mixing the sauce to streamline the process.
Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic from the store.
Substitute Ingredients For Gremolata Pasta Recipe
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest provides a similar citrusy brightness and aromatic quality to the dish.
orange zest - Substitute with grapefruit zest: Grapefruit zest offers a slightly more bitter but still citrusy flavor that complements the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can still add depth to the dish.
flat leaf parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that can enhance the dish similarly to parsley.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess to balance the flavors.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty umami flavor, though use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor profile.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in the dish.
linguine - Substitute with spaghetti: Spaghetti has a similar texture and shape, making it a suitable alternative for the pasta base.
How to Present Gremolata Pasta
Use a large, white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the gremolata and linguine pop, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Twirl the linguine: Use a carving fork to twirl a portion of linguine into a neat, elevated nest in the center of the plate. This adds height and elegance to the dish.
Drizzle the gremolata sauce: Artfully drizzle the gremolata sauce over the linguine, allowing some to pool around the base for added visual interest and flavor distribution.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a small sprig of flat leaf parsley on top of the linguine nest for a touch of freshness and color contrast.
Add citrus zest: Sprinkle a pinch of extra lemon zest and orange zest around the plate to enhance the aroma and visual appeal.
Use microgreens: Scatter a few microgreens around the plate to add a touch of sophistication and a pop of green.
Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, lightly drizzle some high-quality olive oil over the entire dish to give it a beautiful sheen and enhance the flavors.
Essential Tools for Making Gremolata Pasta
Small glass or stainless-steel bowl: Used to mix together the grated lemon and orange zest, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
Microplane or zester: Essential for finely grating the lemon and orange zest.
Garlic press or knife: Used to mince the garlic cloves.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the parsley and mincing the garlic.
Chef's knife: Ideal for chopping the parsley and mincing the garlic.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the olive oil.
Large pot: Required for boiling the salted water and cooking the linguine.
Colander: Used to drain the cooked linguine.
Tongs or pasta fork: Useful for tossing the linguine with the sauce.
Storing and Freezing Gremolata Pasta
To store leftover gremolata pasta, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the pasta for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, place the desired portion of pasta in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the texture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the gremolata pasta. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen gremolata pasta, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a small amount of water or olive oil to help restore moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out.
If you have leftover gremolata sauce, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors of the lemon zest, orange zest, garlic, and parsley will continue to meld together, making the sauce even more flavorful when reused.
How To Reheat Gremolata Pasta Leftovers
Reheat the pasta in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a knob of butter to prevent the pasta from sticking and to add extra flavor. Stir the pasta frequently until it's heated through, about 5-7 minutes. This method helps to revive the texture of the pasta and prevents it from becoming mushy.
For a quick and easy reheating option, microwave the leftover gremolata pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta and cover the dish with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through. The steam from the water or oil will help to rehydrate the pasta and prevent it from drying out.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the gremolata pasta in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish and add a splash of olive oil or a few tablespoons of pasta sauce to keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a delicious twist, transform your leftover gremolata pasta into a pasta frittata. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, grated cheese, salt, and pepper. Add the leftover pasta to the egg mixture and stir to combine. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of olive oil. Pour the pasta and egg mixture into the skillet and cook until the bottom is set, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake until the top is golden brown and the frittata is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
Interesting Fact About Gremolata Pasta
A fun fact about this gremolata pasta recipe is that gremolata is traditionally an Italian condiment made of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, often used to enhance the flavor of osso buco.
Is Making Gremolata Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?
This gremolata pasta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like linguine, olive oil, garlic, and parsley are affordable and easily accessible. The use of lemon and orange zest adds a burst of flavor without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this dish offers a gourmet experience on a budget. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $10-$12 USD for a household of 4 people.
Is Gremolata Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?
The gremolata pasta recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its use of fresh ingredients like lemon and orange zest, garlic, and parsley. These ingredients provide a burst of flavor and offer various health benefits, such as vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. The recipe also uses olive oil, which is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats and has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. However, the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier.
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe to lower the overall calorie and fat content. You can start by using 1/4 cup instead of 1/2 cup and adjust according to taste.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish to increase its nutritional value. Consider adding roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or grilled zucchini to the pasta.
- Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta instead of regular linguine to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates, which can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the dish more balanced and satisfying.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile without relying on excessive amounts of salt or oil. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some fresh basil for an extra layer of freshness.
Editor's Opinion on Gremolata Pasta Recipe
This gremolata pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of citrus and herbaceous flavors. The combination of lemon and orange zest adds a refreshing brightness, while the garlic and parsley provide depth and freshness. The olive oil ties everything together, creating a light yet flavorful sauce that complements the linguine perfectly. It's a simple yet elegant dish that can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated lunch. The balance of acidity, salt, and pepper ensures a well-rounded taste that will impress any palate.
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Why trust this Gremolata Pasta Recipe:
This gremolata pasta recipe is a delightful blend of fresh and vibrant flavors. The combination of lemon zest and orange zest adds a zesty brightness, while the garlic and parsley provide a savory depth. The olive oil ties everything together, creating a silky sauce that perfectly coats the linguine. This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Trust in the quality of these fresh ingredients and the straightforward preparation for a truly delicious meal.
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