Spaghetti al Limone Recipe

This tantalizing lemon spaghetti recipe is a perfect blend of tangy, creamy, and refreshing flavors. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish brings together the delightful sharpness of lemon, the richness of parmigiano-reggiano cheese, and the comforting familiarity of spaghetti in a surprising but delightful way.

Photos of Spaghetti al Limone Recipe

Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and fresh basil leaves might not be the regular items in your pantry. Parmigiano-Reggiano, a type of Italian cheese, is preferred for its unique sharp and complex flavor but you can substitute it with Parmesan cheese if necessary. Fresh basil leaves add a refreshing accent to the dish, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.

Ingredients for Tangy Lemon Spaghetti

Spaghetti: The base of our dish, serves as a wonderful canvas for our tangy lemon sauce.

Parmigiano-reggiano cheese: Gives a rich, nutty flavor to our sauce.

Lemon juice: Adds the tangy zesty flavor.

Extra virgin olive oil: Helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Sea salt: Enhances the flavors of our ingredients.

Freshly ground pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to our sauce.

Lemon zest: Gives an extra lemony flavor and fragrance.

Basil leaves: Adds a refreshing contrast to the tangy lemon flavor.

One reader, Dickie Herrington says:

This lemon spaghetti recipe is a game-changer! The zesty lemon flavor combined with the creamy cheese and fresh basil creates a burst of freshness in every bite. It's simple to make and incredibly delicious. I highly recommend trying it out for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Dickie Herrington

Essential Techniques for Making Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

How to cook spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until it is al dente.

How to make the lemon sauce: Combine the cheese and lemon juice, then gradually beat in the olive oil until the mixture becomes thick and creamy.

How to toss the spaghetti: Pour the sauce over the cooked spaghetti in a serving bowl, then toss thoroughly to coat the pasta.

How to serve: Add the basil to the spaghetti and toss again before serving.

How To Make Spaghetti al Limone

With its sophisticated flavors, you’ll be surprised by how light this spaghetti al limone is. The combo of tangy lemon and creamy cheese is simply tasteful!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbspaghetti
1½cupsParmigiano-Reggiano cheese,freshly grated
¾cuplemon juice,fresh
1cupextra virgin olive oil
½tspsea salt
½tspfreshly ground pepper
2tsplemon zest,grated
2cupsbasil leaves,slivered, firmly packed

Instructions

In a large pot, cook the spaghetti in salted, boiling water until al dente
Place a colander over a large serving bowl, then drain spaghetti into it. Pour water from bowl, wipe bowl dry, then empty spaghetti into it.
Combine cheese and lemon juice in a small mixing bowl. Gradually beat in olive oil until the mixture becomes thick and creamy and cheese “melts” into oil.
Season with salt and pepper. Stir in lemon zest.
Pour the sauce over cooked spaghetti in serving bowl, then toss thoroughly. Add basil, and toss again.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 753.91kcal
Fat: 46.88g
Saturated Fat: 11.30g
Monounsaturated Fat: 29.20g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.47g
Carbohydrates: 60.22g
Fiber: 2.77g
Sugar: 3.14g
Protein: 23.54g
Cholesterol: 25.28mg
Sodium: 517.52mg
Calcium: 474.36mg
Potassium: 262.44mg
Iron: 1.80mg
Vitamin A: 98.16µg
Vitamin C: 14.10mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Lemon Spaghetti

When zesting the lemon, make sure to only get the yellow part of the peel. The white part underneath, known as the pith, is bitter and can negatively affect the flavor of your spaghetti. Using a microplane or a fine grater can help you achieve this. Also, to get the most juice out of your lemon, roll it on the counter before cutting and squeezing. This breaks down some of the fibers inside the lemon, making it easier to squeeze.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lemon Spaghetti

Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup, such as one-pot pasta dishes or sheet pan meals.

Efficient multitasking: Utilize downtime, like waiting for water to boil, to complete other prep tasks and maximize efficiency.

Streamlined cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize post-cooking cleanup time and maintain an organized workspace.

Kitchen organization: Keep commonly used ingredients and tools easily accessible to expedite the cooking process.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors or mandolines to speed up prep work and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti al Limone Recipe

spaghetti - Substitute with linguine: Linguine is a great substitute for spaghetti as it has a similar texture and shape, and it will work well with the lemon sauce.
parmigiano-reggiano cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino romano cheese has a similar salty and tangy flavor to parmigiano-reggiano and will complement the lemony flavor of the dish.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice to provide a similar citrusy flavor to the dish.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for sea salt to season the dish.
freshly ground pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat and flavor to the dish, similar to freshly ground pepper.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can be used as a substitute for lemon zest to provide a citrusy aroma and flavor to the dish.
basil leaves - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for basil leaves to add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.

How to Beautifully Present Lemon Spaghetti

Elevate the plating: Arrange the lemon spaghetti in a nest-like shape, using tongs to create a visually appealing presentation on the plate.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese over the spaghetti, ensuring an even distribution and a touch of elegance.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce a pop of color by garnishing with a few fresh basil leaves strategically placed on top of the spaghetti.
Focus on texture: Consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest on top to provide a contrasting texture and a burst of citrus aroma.
Emphasize the dish's simplicity: Let the beauty of the dish shine through by using minimal garnishes, allowing the flavors to take center stage.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

Large pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the spaghetti in boiling water.
Colander: A colander is used to drain the cooked spaghetti.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine the cheese and lemon juice to make the sauce.
Small mixing bowl: A small mixing bowl is used to gradually beat in the olive oil to make the sauce.
Serving bowl: A serving bowl is used to toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce before serving.

Storing and Freezing Lemon Spaghetti: A Guide

To store leftover lemon spaghetti, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta to help revive its texture and prevent it from drying out. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
If you want to freeze the lemon spaghetti, it's best to undercook the pasta slightly (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions) before tossing it with the sauce. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when thawed and reheated.
To freeze, portion the cooled lemon spaghetti into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label and date the containers, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen lemon spaghetti, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish or a saucepan and add a splash of water or olive oil. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is warmed through and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the bold lemon flavor will still be delicious.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Lemon Spaghetti

Stovetop method: Place the leftover lemon spaghetti in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a pat of butter to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Gently stir the pasta until it's heated through, about 3-5 minutes. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of lemon juice or chicken broth to revive the sauce.
Microwave method: Transfer the leftover lemon spaghetti to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through. If needed, add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
Oven method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover lemon spaghetti to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to slightly crisp up.
Cold pasta salad: If you're in the mood for a refreshing twist, consider turning your leftover lemon spaghetti into a cold pasta salad. Toss the cold spaghetti with some extra lemon juice, olive oil, chopped fresh herbs (like basil or parsley), and your favorite veggies (such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers). This works best if the leftover pasta hasn't completely dried out in the refrigerator.

Interesting Trivia About Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

The lemon spaghetti recipe is a popular dish in southern Italy, particularly in the Amalfi coast. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the zesty taste of lemons with the richness of parmigiano-reggiano cheese.

Is Making Lemon Spaghetti at Home Cost-Effective?

This lemon spaghetti recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as spaghetti, parmigiano-reggiano cheese, and lemon, are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The addition of basil may require a small investment, but it's a versatile herb that can be used in various dishes. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $15. The dish offers a delightful burst of flavors and a satisfying meal experience. I rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is Lemon Spaghetti Healthy or Unhealthy?

The lemon spaghetti recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil (1 cup) and cheese (1½ cups), which are high in calories and fat. While olive oil is a healthier fat option, the quantity used can still contribute to a high-calorie meal.
The recipe lacks a significant source of protein, which is essential for a balanced meal.
The recipe does not include any additional vegetables, which could provide important vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

However, the recipe does have some positive aspects:

Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.
Lemon juice and zest provide vitamin C and antioxidants, which can support immune function and overall health.
Basil is a nutrient-dense herb that contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of olive oil and cheese used in the recipe to lower the overall calorie and fat content.
Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to balance out the meal and provide essential amino acids.
Incorporate additional vegetables into the dish, such as roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or grilled zucchini, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates.

Editor's Opinion on the Delightful Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

This lemon spaghetti recipe is a delightful combination of bright, zesty flavors and creamy richness. The balance of tangy lemon, savory cheese, and fragrant basil creates a refreshing and satisfying dish. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, making it a perfect choice for a light and flavorful meal. The use of high-quality parmigiano-reggiano cheese and extra virgin olive oil elevates the dish, while the addition of lemon zest adds a pop of citrusy aroma. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a burst of sunshine on your plate.

Enhance Your Spaghetti al Limone Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Savory garlic bread with a crispy crust and soft, buttery center, perfect for soaking up the lemony sauce

Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus spears with a hint of smokiness, a refreshing contrast to the zesty lemon spaghetti

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, flavorful roasted chicken thighs, a hearty and satisfying accompaniment to the light and citrusy pasta

Delicious Alternatives to Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy risotto is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers: These grilled pineapple chicken skewers are a perfect blend of sweet and savory. The juicy pineapple and tender chicken are marinated in a flavorful sauce and grilled to perfection, making them a delicious and healthy option for any meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: This butternut squash soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for the fall and winter months. The creamy texture and rich flavor of the butternut squash make it a satisfying and nutritious option for a cozy night at home.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a rich and flavorful filling. The combination of ingredients will tantalize the taste buds and leave your guests wanting more.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by experimenting with different toppings and flavors. From traditional tomato and basil to unique combinations like fig and prosciutto, the possibilities are endless for creating a delicious and visually appealing appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant strawberry topping for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Spaghetti al Limone Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted classic, featuring spaghetti coated in a luscious blend of parmigiano-reggiano cheese, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. The combination of tangy lemon zest and fragrant basil leaves adds a burst of freshness to every bite. With a perfect balance of flavors and a simple yet elegant preparation, this dish promises to delight your taste buds and elevate your dining experience. Trust in the harmonious blend of quality ingredients and time-tested techniques to deliver a memorable culinary experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Spaghetti al Limone recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the spaghetti?

The spaghetti should be cooked in salted, boiling water for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is al dente.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of parmigiano-reggiano?

Yes, you can use pecorino romano or grana padano as a substitute for parmigiano-reggiano.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the lemon spaghetti ahead of time, but it's best to toss the pasta with the sauce just before serving to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Is it possible to add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even pan-seared tofu would be delicious additions to this lemon spaghetti.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

While fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried basil if that's what you have on hand. Just use a smaller amount, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.