As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the kitchen, I find myself craving something light yet bursting with flavor. This recipe was born on one such evening, where I combined the brightness of citrus with the heartiness of pasta, topped with a delightful almond-herb crumble. Each bite encapsulates the essence of a warm sunset, making it the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering.
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium zucchini, spiralized or diced
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 orange, zested and juiced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or linguine, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and zucchini, cooking until the tomatoes begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
As the vegetables cook, add the lemon and orange zest along with their juices, allowing the flavors to meld together with the sautéed vegetables. If the mixture appears too thick, gradually add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Next, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it well to coat with the citrusy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and fold in the chopped basil and parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.
For the almond-herb crumble, in a small bowl, combine the toasted slivered almonds, remaining chopped herbs, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss to blend, creating a delightful topping for the pasta.
To serve, plate the citrus pasta and generously sprinkle the almond-herb crumble over the top. If desired, finish with a light grating of Parmesan cheese for an added touch of richness.
As you sit down to savor this dish, let the vibrant flavors transport you to that enchanting twilight moment. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed solo, this Twilight Citrus Pasta will surely become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire.