Pasta Al Limone Recipe

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt (or enough so the water tastes like the sea). Add 12 oz dry spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8–10 minutes.

Before draining, ladle out and reserve 1½ cups of the starchy pasta cooking water. Do not rinse the pasta; drain and set aside briefly.

Sweat aromatics

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil and 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large wide skillet over medium heat until butter melts and begins to foam. Add 1 finely minced shallot and cook, stirring, until translucent but not browned, about 2–3 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

Build lemon-cream base

Stir in 2 tablespoons lemon zest and 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil vigorously). Reduce heat to low and simmer 2–3 minutes to slightly thicken.

Finish sauce with cheese and seasoning

Whisk in 3 oz grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust: add a touch more lemon juice or salt if needed.

Adjust consistency

Add reserved pasta cooking water in ¼-cup increments, whisking or stirring, until the sauce reaches a silky, lightly coating consistency — you will likely use ½–1½ cups depending on desired thickness (the recipe lists 1½ cups reserved). Keep sauce warm on the lowest heat.

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss vigorously with tongs or two forks for 1–2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the lemon-cream and the sauce clings. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more reserved pasta water to loosen; if too thin, cook together a bit longer.

Taste and correct seasoning: add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley.

Divide the pasta among 4 shallow bowls. Top each serving with the remaining ½ oz grated cheese, extra lemon zest if using, and a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat (optional). Serve immediately.