Description
Pappardelle al Limone is a luscious, creamy lemon pasta that combines the zest and juice of fresh lemons with rich heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This bright and velvety Italian dish is perfectly balanced and easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight main course with a refreshing citrus twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces pappardelle pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Optional
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta thoroughly.
- Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Simmer the cream: Stir in the heavy cream and gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the cream to slightly thicken and develop a smooth texture.
- Add lemon and seasoning: Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend the flavors harmoniously.
- Incorporate cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the finely grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pappardelle directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and reach your preferred consistency.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- Add sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken to increase the protein content and make it a more hearty meal.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for a smoother, better-melting sauce with richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
