Name: Lemon spaghetti
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 225g of spaghetti; 350ml chicken or vegetable stock; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 shallot, sliced thinly; 120g parmesan cheese, shredded or shaved; 250ml Semi skimmed Milk; 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon of butter or olive oil; 1 tablespoon of butter

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We all have those days where we come home exhausted from work, with no energy to cook a complicated meal. The thought of spending hours in the kitchen just seems daunting. But what if I told you there’s a delicious and easy solution to your dinner dilemmas? Yes, you heard it right – Instant Pot Lemon Spaghetti!

Plate of lemon spaghetti topped with a slice of lemon.

Why I think you will love this recipe

Not only is this recipe incredibly quick and easy to make, but it also packs a burst of fresh flavours that will leave your taste buds dancing. There’s just something about the combination of zesty lemon and hearty pasta that makes this dish so satisfying.

But that’s not all – making this Instant Pot Lemon Spaghetti is also a great way to cut down on your kitchen cleaning time. Since all the ingredients are cooked in one pot, there’s minimal mess to clean up afterwards. Plus, with the Instant Pot’s efficient cooking technology, you save both time and energy.

You might be thinking – but what about leftovers? Well, this pasta dish is just as delicious the next day for lunch or dinner. Simply store it in an airtight container and reheat it in the microwave.

The ingredients

Spaghetti

Spaghetti is the perfect pasta choice for this recipe because of its long and thin shape. It allows for even cooking and a perfect al dente texture. Plus, it pairs well with the lemony sauce, as it can hold onto all the flavours and distribute them evenly through each bite.

Chicken or vegetable stock

The stock adds depth and richness to the dish, bringing out all the flavours of the other ingredients. It also helps to cook the spaghetti evenly and infuse it with delicious savoury notes. Additionally, using vegetable stock instead of chicken gives an option for vegetarians to enjoy this dish as well.

Garlic

Garlic adds a strong and aromatic flavour to the dish, balancing out the tanginess of the lemon. It also has health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. Minced garlic also cooks quickly in the Instant Pot, adding flavour without needing to sauté it beforehand.

Shallot

Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavour compared to onions, making it perfect for adding subtle depth to the dish without overpowering it. It also adds texture and color to the pasta, making it visually appealing. Slicing them thinly allows them to cook quickly in the Instant Pot and blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. Plus, shallots are rich in antioxidants and can help improve heart health.

Parmesan cheese

Parmesan cheese adds a rich and creamy element to the dish, giving it a luxurious texture. It also has a nutty and salty flavour that pairs well with the lemony sauce. Shredded or shaved parmesan can easily melt into the hot pasta and add an extra layer of deliciousness.

Semi skimmed Milk

Milk adds a creamy and smooth texture to the sauce, making it velvety and rich. Semi-skimmed milk is lower in fat compared to whole milk, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavour. It also helps balance out the tanginess of the lemon and enhances the overall creaminess of the dish. The milk also incorporates well with the other ingredients in the Instant Pot, creating a cohesive and delicious sauce for the pasta.

Lemon

The lemon not only adds bright and refreshing notes to the dish but also helps balance out the richness of the cream and cheese. The juice provides a tangy acidity that cuts through the heavy elements in the dish.

Butter or Olive oil

Butter or olive oil helps add richness and depth of flavor to the dish. Both options have their unique qualities – butter adds a creamy and rich texture, while olive oil adds a subtle fruity note. These ingredients also prevent the pasta from sticking together and help give it a glossy finish.

Adding just a small amount adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates the overall dish. Additionally, butter or olive oil help prevent the pasta from drying out in the Instant Pot and keeps it moist and flavorful. So not only do they add great taste, but they also play a crucial role in ensuring a perfectly cooked and delicious final product.

Health benefits of lemon spaghetti

Lemon spaghetti not only tastes delicious but also offers several health benefits. The dish contains vitamin C from the lemon, which helps boost the immune system. It also includes calcium from the semi-skimmed milk, promoting strong bones and teeth. Additionally, the pasta provides carbohydrates for energy, while the butter or olive oil offers healthy fats that are essential

Tips for making the perfect lemon spaghetti in the instant pot

Use a high-quality pasta: It is essential to use good quality pasta for this recipe as it will result in a better texture and taste. Look for a brand that uses high-quality ingredients and has a good reputation.

Adjust cooking time: As different types of pasta may require varying cook times, it is important to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, thinner pasta may require less cooking time compared to thicker pasta.

Use the correct amount of liquid: Make sure to follow the recipe’s instructions for the correct amount of liquid needed for cooking the pasta in the Instant Pot. Too much or too little liquid can affect the final result.

Natural release vs. quick release: When using an Instant Pot, it is important to know the difference between natural release and quick release. For this recipe, a natural release is recommended to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

Experiment with additional ingredients: While lemon spaghetti is delicious on its own, you can also add other ingredients like vegetables or protein for added flavour and nutrition. Some popular additions include cherry tomatoes, shrimp, or chicken.

Don’t overcook the pasta: It is easy to overcook pasta in the Instant Pot, so make sure to closely monitor the cooking time and use a timer if needed. Overcooked pasta can result in a mushy and unappetizing dish.

Adjust seasoning to taste: As with any recipe, it is important to taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavour of the dish.

Serve immediately: Pasta dishes are best served hot and fresh, so make sure to serve your lemon spaghetti as soon as it is ready. This will ensure that the pasta retains its texture and flavours.

Substitutions

If you don’t have all the ingredients listed in this recipe, don’t worry! There are many substitutions you can make to still create a delicious lemon spaghetti dish. For example, instead of using linguine pasta, you can use any long and thin pasta such as spaghetti or fettuccine. If you don’t have fresh lemons on hand, you can substitute with bottled lemon juice, but make sure to adjust the amount used as bottled juice tends to be more concentrated.

If you are dairy-free, you can use olive oil instead of butter. You can also experiment with different types of herbs and spices to add a unique twist to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the quantities according to your taste and dietary needs. With some creativity and flexibility, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. So don’t be afraid to try out different substitutions and make this lemon spaghetti.

Another recipe you might like is Instant Pot beef & noodles, perfect for a quick easy pre family recipe after a busy day!

Step by Step Instructions

Turn the instant pot to sauté. When it is hot, add 1 teaspoon of butter or olive oil and shallot and sauté for 2 minutes.

Add the garlic and turn the instant pot off. Allow to rest for one minute.

Shallot and garlic with butter in instant pot.

Stir to deglaze.

Add the stock.

Add the spaghetti. You can break them in half, or even thirds if preferred.

Use a spoon to push the spaghetti into the stock, but don’t stir.

You want the strands submerged.

Add a tablespoon of butter to the top of the spaghetti.

Add juice from half of the lemon.

Replace the lid and seal.

Use the manual setting and cook for 5 minutes.

It should take 10 minutes or so until the instant pot reaches pressure.

When the timer alerts, use the quick release valve.

Open the instant pot and add milk and parmesan cheese then stir.

Place the lid on the instant pot and allow the food to rest for about 4 to 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the cheese to melt.

Squeeze the juice from the remaining half of the lemon onto the pasta.

Toss and serve.

Allow leftovers to cool, then store in an airtight container.

Storage instructions

If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool down before storing them in an airtight container. Store the lemon spaghetti in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a pan with a bit of water or stock and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can also microwave it for a few minutes until heated.

Do not freeze the spaghetti as the texture and flavor may be affected. The best way to enjoy this dish is fresh, but it can still make for a tasty leftover lunch or dinner option. So go ahead and save some for later! And remember, always store food at proper temperatures to ensure safety and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon spaghetti can be served as a main dish or a side dish. To make it a complete meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or prawns on top. You can also add some roasted vegetables like asparagus or courgette for added nutrition and flavour. Another option is to serve it alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you have now successfully made a delicious lemon spaghetti dish in just a few simple steps! I hope you enjoyed this recipe and found it easy to make. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch to the dish by adding extra herbs or veggies. I would love to hear about your experience with this recipe and any variations you may have tried. Have any comments or feedback? Let me know in the comments section below.

FAQ

Can I substitute lemon juice with bottled lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for optimal flavour, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

How long can I store leftovers of this dish?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before consuming.

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using your favourite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package. Overall, this lemon spaghetti dish is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal plan.