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Pasta with Preserved Lemon Alfredo

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Pasta with Preserved Lemon Alfredo is a creamy, citrus-forward pasta dish featuring tender noodles, Swiss chard, and a rich sauce made with cream, butter, and preserved lemon paste. It’s a comforting yet vibrant twist on classic Alfredo.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pasta (homemade egg pasta or boxed pasta)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 4 cups Swiss chard, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 5 tablespoons preserved lemon paste
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
  • 4 quarts water (for boiling pasta)

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 quarts of water and 1 tablespoon salt to a boil.
  2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Swiss chard and sauté for 2 minutes until wilted. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, combine preserved lemon paste and heavy cream. Heat over medium, whisking until it gently simmers.
  4. Add butter one tablespoon at a time, whisking until fully melted and incorporated. Remove from heat.
  5. Add pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente (3 minutes for fresh pasta or according to box instructions).
  6. Return the skillet with the cream sauce to medium heat. Stir in 1 cup of pasta cooking water and whisk until smooth.
  7. Transfer cooked pasta directly into the sauce using tongs. Toss to coat.
  8. Add sautéed Swiss chard and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss gently to combine.
  9. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmigiano Reggiano.

Notes

  • Preserved lemon paste provides a salty, tangy citrus flavor—adjust salt carefully.
  • Swiss chard adds color and gentle bitterness, but spinach or kale can be substituted.
  • Great with fettuccine, linguine, or tagliatelle.
  • Optional: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

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