Craving a bright, flavorful pasta dish that's ready in minutes? Ina Garten's Lemon Capellini is the answer. This incredibly simple recipe delivers a burst of sunshine on a plate, perfect for a weeknight meal when you're short on time but craving something delicious. The vibrant lemon sauce, tossed with delicate capellini noodles and enhanced with Parmesan cheese, is unbelievably satisfying and surprisingly elegant. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe prioritizes fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a truly unforgettable taste.
This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike. The combination of zesty lemon, salty Parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this delightful Lemon Capellini together.
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Juicer
- Pan
Ingredients
- Capellini: 1 pound
- Butter: 1/2 pound
- Lemons: 2
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Shrimp or Chicken (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Cook Pasta and Prep Lemons
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add capellini and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Zest both lemons, then juice them.
Step 2. Make the Lemon Sauce
- In a pan, melt butter. Add lemon zest and juice.
- Stir in salt and pepper.
Step 3. Combine and Adjust
- Add the cooked capellini directly to the sauce (don't drain the pasta water completely).
- Toss to coat, adding a bit of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve immediately. Garnish with extra lemon zest, if desired.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- This dish is versatile; serve it with shrimp, chicken, or enjoy it on its own.
- Don't be shy with the lemon zest; it adds a lot of flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While capellini is ideal for its delicate texture, you can substitute with angel hair, spaghetti, or even linguine. Just be mindful of cooking times.
2. What can I do if I don't have fresh lemon juice?
You can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice will provide the best flavor. About 1 tablespoon of bottled juice should substitute for the juice of one lemon.
Ina Garten's Lemon Capellini is the ultimate weeknight pasta solution: quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious. This simple recipe proves that elegant meals don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this bright, flavorful dish and savor the taste of effortless perfection!