Today I bring you a recipe that has it all and you’re going to love it: lemon pasta in just 15 minutes. A dish that is the perfect blend of freshness, flavor and lightness. This lemon spaghetti recipe, inspired by the genius of Peppe Guida – yes, that chef who was even one of the protagonists of a memorable Chef’s Table episode – carries my personal touch and those little tricks I have been perfecting over the years. Do you know what is best? We achieve a creamy texture without having to resort to cream, making the most of the natural starch that the pasta releases while cooking.
What you prepare is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that invites you to share unforgettable moments with friends and family. Put your heart into it, get those spaghettini moving and let the vibrant aroma of lemon and thyme fill your kitchen!
Watch the video with all the steps
Here below you can see the video with all the steps to prepare lemon pasta in the easiest way. Note: the video is in Spanish but with automatic Google subtitles in English. And if you haven’t already, I invite you to subscribe to my YouTube channel so you don’t miss any new recipe. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram! There I share more recipes, tips and special content for lovers of Italian cuisine.
Main Ingredients
For 2 servings
⏱ Preparation time: 5 min
⏱ Cooking time: 10 min
- 160 g of spaghettini (or regular spaghetti)
- Zest of 2 lemons (avoid the white part)
- 60 g of grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: small broccoli florets (to add a herbal touch)
Remember:
At the end of the article you will find the complete recipe card with detailed cooking and preparation times.
How to prepare the lemon pasta
Risotto-style cooking
First, place 160 g of spaghettini in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan. Next, pour in a couple of ladles of hot water and gently stir with circular motions. This allows the pasta to begin releasing its starch. Then, gradually add more hot water. In this way, a natural cream will form, giving the dish a silky texture.
Likewise, it is important to maintain a steady pace when adding the water, as this ensures even cooking without breaking the spaghettini. Therefore, keep gently stirring while the pasta absorbs the liquid.
The lemon touch
Next, incorporate the zest of 2 lemons. Remember to zest only the yellow part and discard the white part, as the latter can add bitterness. Also, distribute the zest evenly so that it mixes with the released starch. This way, you will achieve a fresh and intoxicating aroma that will enhance the flavor of the pasta.
Similarly, this simple trick is key to obtaining that citrus note that makes lemon pasta unique.
Integration of cheese and herbs
When the pasta is almost al dente and the cream has formed, it is time to add 60 g of grated Parmesan cheese.
Then, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and the 3 sprigs of fresh thyme.
Finally, if you wish, garnish the dish with small broccoli florets. This extra touch adds a herbal nuance and a charming visual appeal. With these steps, you will achieve a creamy, flavorful lemon pasta that everyone will love.
Tips and tricks for a perfect result
Gently toss the pasta
It is important to gently toss the spaghettini to avoid breaking them and ensure even cooking.
Adjust the salt gradually
Add salt gradually and taste the pasta during cooking, as the cheese also contributes saltiness. This way, you will achieve the perfect balance of flavor.
The moment for the cheese
Incorporate the cheese when the pasta is nearly ready and mix with a little water to obtain a creamy, well-integrated texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of pasta?
Although fine spaghettini or spaghetti are recommended for a delicate texture, you can experiment with linguine, always taking care that they do not break during cooking.
Is fresh thyme essential?
Thyme gives that special aromatic touch, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute it with basil or simply omit it.
How do I achieve a creamy sauce without using cream?
The key is to cook the pasta in a risotto style, gradually adding hot water so that it releases its starch, and mixing the cheese with a little water before incorporating it.
Can I garnish the pasta with other ingredients?
Yes, in addition to the broccoli florets, you can add extra zest or some thyme leaves to enhance the aroma.
Related recipes that you’ll love
Note: Some of these articles are also available in English.
Enjoy your lemon pasta!
This recipe shows that with few ingredients and just the right touch of lemon, you can achieve fresh, creamy pasta in just 15 minutes. Dare to make it and tell me in the comments how it turned out!
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The card
Lemon Pasta
Ingredients
- 160 g spaghetti or spaghettini
- zest of 2 lemons without the white part
- 60 g grated parmesan cheese
- 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 3-4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: small broccoli florets to add a herbal touch
Instructions
- Place the 160 g of spaghettini in a wide, heavy-bottomed paella pan. Pour a couple of ladles of hot water and stir gently in circular motions so that the pasta begins to release its starch. Gradually add more hot water until a natural cream forms.
- Incorporate the zest of 2 lemons, taking care to zest only the yellow part and discarding the white part to avoid bitterness. Distribute the zest evenly so that it mixes with the starch.
- When the pasta is almost al dente and the cream has formed, add 60 g of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix the cheese with a little warm water to facilitate its integration and obtain a homogeneous sauce.
- Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and the 3 sprigs of fresh thyme. If desired, garnish the dish with small broccoli florets to add an extra herbal touch and a pleasing visual appeal.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
