Ina Garten’s Irresistible Lemon Pasta Delight for Your Next Dinner Party!

Introduction

Are you looking for a refreshing and flavorful pasta recipe that will impress your guests? Look no further than Ina Garten’s Lemon Pasta! This delightful dish combines the tanginess of fresh lemons with the richness of butter and cream to create a mouthwatering experience that will leave your dinner party guests craving for more. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions on how to make this extraordinary dish!

Ingredients

• 1 pound of pasta (linguine or fettuccine work best)
• 2 lemons
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Fill a large pot with generously salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, zest both lemons using a microplane zester. Set the zest aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the lemon zest and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the heavy cream to the saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
5. Remove the thickened cream from heat. Cut one of the lemons in half and squeeze its juice into the cream. Stir well to combine.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the lemon cream sauce.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again until the cheese melts and creates a creamy coating.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with a handful of fresh parsley and serve immediately.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

While linguine or fettuccine are recommended for this recipe, you can certainly use other types of pasta such as spaghetti or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

Using heavy cream will give the sauce its rich and velvety texture. However, if you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just note that the sauce may not be as creamy.

3. How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe can easily be made vegetarian-friendly by using a vegetarian pasta option, such as egg-free or vegetable-based pasta, and ensuring the cheese you use is suitable for vegetarians.

4. Can I add additional ingredients to personalize the dish?

Absolutely! While Ina Garten’s recipe is delicious on its own, you can add your favorite ingredients to personalize it. Popular additions include cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.

5. How long can I store leftovers?

The pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of cream or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist.

So why wait? Try Ina Garten’s Lemon Pasta recipe for your next dinner party and enjoy the burst of flavors this dish brings! Your guests will be asking for the recipe, guaranteed!