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Capellini With Garlic Lemon And Parmesan copycat recipe

Capellini With Garlic Lemon And Parmesan Recipe

Capellini with garlic, lemon, and Parmesan is a dish that is as simple as it is satisfying. If you are looking for a light yet flavorful meal, this recipe might just become your new favorite
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 365 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • ½ pound capellini
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
  • 3 ½ tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
  • 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced
  • Pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • Fresh lemon zest
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crushed red chili flakes

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Capellini

  • Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the capellini. Cook according to the package directions, usually just 2-3 minutes.
  • Given the pasta’s delicate nature, keep an eye on it. Strain the capellini in a colander when done, and reserve a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water is golden for the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  • In a large skillet, melt the European-style butter over medium heat, adding the olive oil. This combination adds depth to the dish. Toss in the sliced garlic and chopped shallots.
  • Cook them slowly, watching for that lovely golden hue. You want them fragrant but not toasted, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Lemon Zest and Juice

  • Once the garlic and shallots are ready, introduce the lemon zest and juice. This zesty addition will brighten the flavors in your dish. Give it a stir and allow it to simmer for a minute, letting those flavors meld seamlessly.

Step 4: Toss in the Capellini

  • Now comes the fun part! Add the capellini directly to the skillet. Gently toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
  • This is where you can use that reserved pasta water if needed. Just a splash can help bind everything together.

Step 5: Season and Serve

  • Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and freshly chopped basil.
  • Toss everything again. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh lemon zest, grated Parmesan, and a touch of crushed red chili flakes for a bit of heat. Enjoy the colorful presentation and the irresistible aroma!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor dramatically. Dried herbs lack the vibrancy of fresh ones.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Capellini cooks very quickly. Check it a minute before the suggested time to avoid mushy pasta.
  • Adjust the Zest: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon zest to suit your palate. It can make or break the brightness of the dish.
  • Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding vegetables like spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
  • Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If it sits too long, the pasta can absorb the sauce and become chewy.

Nutrition

Serving: 356gCalories: 365kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 6gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 16.9gCholesterol: 52mgSodium: 38mgFiber: 4gSugar: 14g
Keyword Capellini With Garlic Lemon And Parmesan Recipe
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