Pasta with Lemon Cream
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Description: A delightful and zesty recipe from Nigella Lawson that will elevate your pasta experience with a luscious lemon cream sauce. This dish is not only quick and simple but also perfectly suited for springtime dining. The recipe, designed to be UK-friendly with metric measurements and local ingredients, offers a creamy, tangy flavor profile that will surely become a favorite. For those across the Atlantic, you can easily substitute “double cream” with half and half or plain cream to achieve a similar richness. This dish is perfect for those seeking a quick, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes!
Category: Healthy
Keywords: < 30 Mins, Easy
Ingredients:
- 150g pasta
- 50g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 egg yolks
- 750ml double cream (or half and half/plain cream)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Lemon: Start by zesting and juicing the lemon. Set these aside to use later in the recipe. The zest will add a vibrant, aromatic note, while the juice will provide the tangy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
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Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the lemon zest and juice with the egg yolks, finely grated Parmesan cheese, and the double cream (or your chosen substitute). Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined and set aside.
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Reserve Pasta Water: Just before draining, scoop out a generous spoonful of the pasta cooking water and set it aside. This starchy water will help to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.
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Drain and Combine: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and immediately return it to the hot pan, which should be off the heat. Quickly pour in the prepared lemon cream sauce, stirring vigorously to coat the pasta evenly. The residual heat from the pan will help to warm the sauce and blend the flavors.
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Adjust Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick or the pasta appears dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until you reach the desired consistency. The starchy water will help to create a smooth, luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
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Serve: Serve the pasta immediately while it’s still warm and creamy. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for an added touch of flavor and color.
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Enjoy: This dish is best enjoyed right after preparation to savor the rich, creamy texture of the sauce. The lemon adds a fresh and zesty lift that makes this pasta both comforting and refreshing.
Note: Cooking times can vary depending on the type of pasta used, so adjust accordingly. The creamy sauce may thicken as it sits, so it’s best to serve and enjoy immediately for the perfect texture and flavor.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 935.8
Fat: 25.6g
Saturated Fat: 14.1g
Cholesterol: 165.8mg
Sodium: 240.3mg
Carbohydrates: 142.9g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 3.8g
Protein: 31.3g
This Pasta with Lemon Cream is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Enjoy this delightful meal that brings a touch of springtime freshness to your table! 🌿🍋🍝
