Real Deal Penne Al Limone
Experience the vibrant and creamy flavors of Italy with this Real Deal Penne Al Limone recipe—a luxurious yet refreshingly light dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This classic Italian pasta combines tender penne coated in a velvety lemon-infused cream sauce made with unsalted butter, heavy cream, and finely grated Parmesan cheese. Bright notes of fresh lemon zest and juice elevate the dish with a zesty punch, while a touch of reserved pasta water ensures the sauce clings beautifully to every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is a simple yet sophisticated way to bring big flavors to the table. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness, and savor this restaurant-quality penne al limone at home! Keywords: Penne al limone, creamy lemon pasta, Italian pasta recipe, quick and easy dinner.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 400 grams penne pasta
- 60 grams unsalted butter
- 120 milliliters heavy cream
- 100 grams Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 120 milliliters reserved pasta water
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 milliliters (about 1/2 cup) of the pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt and become slightly foamy.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the cream cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to slightly thicken.
Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and carefully add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the penne evenly in the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Remove the skillet from the heat and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt or pepper if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your Real Deal Penne Al Limone!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
505 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 33.6 g | 43% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.8 g | 94% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 73 mg | 24% | |
| Sodium | 724 mg | 31% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.2 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.1 g | ||
| Protein | 15.5 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 291 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 103 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
