Lemon Water Spaghetti (A unique pasta al limone recipe)
This divine lemon water spaghetti is based on a recipe by Neapolitan Michelin star chef Peppe Guida. It uses a unique approach to cook the pasta, helping make a silky lemon pasta sauce using very simple ingredients. It's very refreshing and the perfect summer dish.
Servings: 2
Calories: 900kcal
Ingredients
- 8 ¾ oz spaghetti or linguine
- 3 ½ lemons preferable oragnic and unwaxed
- 3 ½ oz provolone del Monaco or other types of provolone dolce or armigiano Reggiano
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves
- 2 ¼ cups water
- 3-4 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- lemon leaves optional
Instructions
- Wash 3 lemons, cut them into quarters, and remove the pulp. Place the lemon peels in a bowl with 500ml (about 1 pint) of hot water heated to about 75/80°C. Cover and leave to infuse overnight.
- Strain the lemon-infused water into a small pot and bring to a boil.
- In a deep sauté pan over medium heat, add a large ladleful of lemon-infused water, 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti to the pan, stirring continuously. Gradually add more lemon-infused water as needed to cook the pasta and prevent it from drying out. Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently to ensure even cooking until the pasta is al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in the lemon zest, grated cheese, and 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the chopped basil and stir again.
- Serve immediately with a little more basil, ground black pepper and grated provolone or Parmigiano Reggiano.
Notes
- If you want to use lemon leaves. Wash and dry the lemon leaves. Cook in the microwave at maximum temperature until they are dry. (about 2 minutes). Blend and sieve through a tight sieve. Put aside. Sprinkle your ready dish with the dried lemon leaves before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 900kcal | Carbohydrates: 113g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 1063mg | Potassium: 589mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 485IU | Vitamin C: 100mg | Calcium: 819mg | Iron: 3mg