Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Large mixing bowl
- Zester or grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the lemon mixture and toss to coat. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
4. Add grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley to the bowl and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
- N/A
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 16g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Spaghetti can be substituted with any type of pasta.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
- Fresh parsley can be substituted with basil or oregano.
Variations:
- Add cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use Meyer lemons instead of regular lemons for a sweeter flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Reserve pasta water before draining in case the pasta needs more moisture.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to taste.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large pasta bowl with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon wedges
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook pasta to the recommended time to ensure it is fully cooked.
Food history:
- Lemon spaghetti is a popular dish in Italian cuisine, particularly in the Amalfi Coast region.
Flavor profiles:
- Tangy, bright, savory, cheesy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian