Lemon-Dill Linguine

Lemon-Dill Linguine Recipe from Italy with Romano Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lemon-Dill Linguine is a light and refreshing pasta dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. The combination of fresh lemon juice, dill weed, and parsley gives this dish a bright and zesty flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional pasta dishes, incorporating fresh herbs and citrus flavors to create a unique and delicious dish. The use of lemon and dill in pasta dishes can be traced back to Mediterranean cuisine, where these ingredients are commonly used to add brightness and freshness to dishes.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of uncooked linguine noodles
3 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
2 tsp of reduced calorie margarine
2 tbsp of minced chives
0.33 cup of skim milk
1 tsp of corn starch
1 tbsp of minced fresh dill or 1 tsp of dried dill weed
1 tbsp of minced fresh parsley or 1 tsp of dried parsley
2 tsp of grated lemon peel
0.25 tsp of ground white pepper
3 tbsp of grated romano or parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Cook the noodles according to the package directions, then drain and place them in a medium bowl.
Pour the lemon juice over the noodles and toss them.
Melt the margarine in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chives and cook them until they become soft.
Combine the milk and cornstarch, then stir the mixture into the saucepan.
Cook and stir until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the dill, parsley, lemon peel, and white pepper.
Pour the milk mixture over the noodles, sprinkle with cheese, and toss to coat them.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Substitute the noodles with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Use whole wheat noodles for added fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the noodles al dente to ensure they are not overcooked and mushy.

- Toss the noodles with the lemon juice while they are still warm to allow the flavors to absorb into the pasta.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and dill to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lemon-Dill Linguine with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a refreshing and satisfying dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the noodles until al dente.

- Make a creamy sauce by thickening milk with cornstarch.

- Toss the noodles with the sauce and cheese until well coated.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine.

- Substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs if needed.

- Use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Cook the noodles just before serving to ensure they are fresh and hot.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Lemon-Dill Linguine with additional lemon zest and fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it in a large pasta bowl for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A side of garlic bread or bruschetta would also complement the flavors of the pasta.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 230

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 38g

Dietary Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 1g

Fats

Total Fat: 4g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 8g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 6%

Vitamin C: 10%

Calcium: 10%

Iron: 8%

Alergens

Contains: Wheat, Milk

Summary

This Lemon-Dill Linguine dish is a good source of carbohydrates and protein, while also providing essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and fats, making it a healthy option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Lemon-Dill Linguine is a delicious and light pasta dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With its bright and zesty flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Lemon-Dill Linguine many years ago. It was during one of my regular visits to the local farmer's market, where I would always find the freshest produce and unique ingredients to inspire my cooking. On this particular day, I came across a stall selling the most vibrant lemons and fragrant dill I had ever seen.

As I chatted with the farmer about his crops, he mentioned that he had a family recipe for a simple yet delicious pasta dish that highlighted the flavors of these two ingredients. Intrigued, I asked him to share it with me, and he gladly obliged. He told me that this recipe had been passed down through generations in his family, originating from his great-grandmother who had immigrated to the United States from Italy.

Eager to try out this new recipe, I rushed home with my bounty of lemons and dill. I carefully read through the instructions, taking note of the precise measurements and techniques required to create the perfect Lemon-Dill Linguine. The recipe called for just a few simple ingredients - linguine pasta, butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, and Parmesan cheese - but the combination of flavors sounded absolutely divine.

I boiled a pot of water and cooked the linguine until it was al dente, then drained it and set it aside. In a separate pan, I melted some butter and sautéed minced garlic until it was fragrant. I added the lemon zest and juice, allowing the citrusy aroma to fill the kitchen, before tossing in the cooked pasta.

The final touch was a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh dill and a handful of grated Parmesan cheese. I plated the Lemon-Dill Linguine and took my first bite, savoring the burst of flavors in my mouth. The tangy lemon, the aromatic dill, and the creamy Parmesan all melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was light, refreshing, and utterly satisfying.

From that moment on, Lemon-Dill Linguine became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, or simply as a quick and easy weeknight meal. Each time I prepared it, I would think back to that fateful day at the farmer's market when I discovered this hidden gem of a recipe.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and additions to the original recipe, adding in ingredients like cherry tomatoes, grilled shrimp, or roasted asparagus to give it a new twist. But no matter how I choose to serve it, the essence of the dish remains the same - a celebration of the bright, fresh flavors of lemon and dill, passed down through generations and cherished by all who taste it.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that brought me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the people and places that have inspired my love of cooking. And I hope that this story, and the recipe for Lemon-Dill Linguine, will continue to bring joy and nourishment to all who try it. Buon appetito!