Description
A quick and vibrant frozen lemon pasta recipe featuring tender noodles coated in a buttery, garlicky Parmesan sauce infused with finely grated frozen lemon for an intensely bright and tangy flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces long pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large lemon, frozen solid
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- While the pasta cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown.
- Using a microplane or fine grater, carefully grate the entire frozen lemon directly into the skillet with the butter and garlic.
- Stir the grated lemon gently into the butter mixture.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and pour in about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water.
- Toss everything together until well combined and the sauce begins to emulsify.
- Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and continue tossing.
- Add more reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed, until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta evenly.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
Freeze the lemon overnight so it is firm enough to grate finely. Grate the frozen lemon directly into the warm skillet to release its citrus oils and aroma. Do not allow the garlic to brown, as it can become bitter. Reserve plenty of pasta water because the starch helps create a smooth, emulsified sauce. For a subtle kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat gently with a splash of broth or a little butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired