Pappardelle al Limone is a dish that dances on your taste buds, combining the creamy textures of pasta with the zesty brightness of lemon. Imagine twirling those long, luscious noodles around your fork, each bite bursting with a refreshing citrus flavor that feels like sunshine on a plate. Mediterranean mezze platter ideas. You might also enjoy this Mediterranean mezze platter recipe.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I make Pappardelle al Limone without cream?
- What’s the best type of lemon to use?
- How can I make this dish vegan?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every time I whip up Pappardelle al Limone, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where aromas of garlic and lemon mingled like old friends. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or casual get-togethers when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. one-pan chicken cacciatore Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will leave your guests begging for seconds! You might also enjoy this one-pan chicken cacciatore recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties
- You’ll enjoy the delightful balance of creamy and tangy flavors, making it irresistible
- Its stunning presentation will wow anyone at your table, ensuring it’s not just a meal but an experience
- Versatile enough to pair with chicken or seafood for added protein without overpowering the dish
I remember one memorable evening when I served this dish at a family gathering; everyone was so entranced by the flavors that they forgot all about dessert! healthy dessert option.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pappardelle Pasta: Use fresh if possible; its wide shape perfectly captures the sauce.
- Fresh Lemons: The zest and juice create that signature tang; always choose unwaxed lemons.
- Heavy Cream: Opt for organic cream for a richer flavor and velvety texture.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on this aromatic wonder.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for maximum flavor—your taste buds will thank you!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors; sea salt works wonders here.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a lovely touch of color and aroma; always use fresh over dried.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Pasta Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. The salt enhances the pasta’s flavor while cooking.
Cook the Pappardelle: Add pappardelle noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh pasta.
Sauté Garlic and Prepare Sauce Base: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute—don’t let it brown!
Add Cream and Lemon Juice: Pour in heavy cream and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir gently until well combined, letting it simmer for about 3 minutes until thickened slightly.
Toss in Cheese and Seasonings: Remove from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until creamy perfection envelops every noodle.
Combine Pasta with Sauce: Drain your pappardelle (reserving some pasta water) and add directly to the skillet. Toss together vigorously, adding reserved water as needed for creaminess.
Serve immediately garnished with freshly chopped basil. Enjoy every delightful bite of this zesty pasta dish!
You Must Know
- Pappardelle al Limone is a delightful dish that balances creamy richness with zesty brightness
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta is an experience that tantalizes the senses and warms the heart
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pappardelle in salted water until al dente. While it cooks, prepare your lemon sauce in a separate pan for best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the cream for a lighter option like Greek yogurt or add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect pappardelle, always salt your pasta water generously; it enhances flavor beautifully
- Consider using fresh pasta for a delicate texture that elevates the dish
- Lastly, don’t rush the sauce; let those flavors meld together for maximum impact
Cooking this dish always reminds me of my Italian grandmother, who believed every meal should come with laughter and love. Her secret ingredient? A generous squeeze of joy—it makes all the difference!
FAQ
Can I make Pappardelle al Limone without cream?
Yes! Substitute with Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter version.
What’s the best type of lemon to use?
Fresh, organic lemons deliver the brightest and most vibrant flavor.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based cream alternatives and omit any cheese toppings to keep it vegan-friendly.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Pappardelle al Limone
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Pappardelle al Limone is a refreshing Italian pasta dish that perfectly marries creamy textures with zesty lemon flavor. Each bite of these wide noodles delivers a burst of sunshine, making it ideal for both cozy dinners and elegant gatherings. Quick to prepare yet impressive enough to wow your guests, this delightful recipe will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente (about 3-5 minutes for fresh pasta).
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice; simmer for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Drain pappardelle (reserve some pasta water) and toss in the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved water as needed for desired creaminess.
- Serve immediately garnished with fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 90mg