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A plate of freshly cooked casareccia pasta topped with a savory tomato sauce and fresh basil.

Casareccia

Casarecce al Limone e Salvia is a traditional Italian pasta dish featuring casarecce pasta, fresh lemon, sage, and garlic. This simple, flavorful recipe brings the essence of rustic Sicilian cooking with a zesty lemon-sage sauce that clings to the twisted pasta. It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight meal or casual get-togethers, offering a taste of Italy’s culinary heritage in every bite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Pan for sautéing sauce
  • Strainer for draining pasta
  • Grater for cheese (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • Casarecce Pasta – 500g
  • Fresh Sage – 10g
  • Garlic Cloves – 2 minced
  • Lemon – 1 organic
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 4 tbsp
  • Onions – 2 sliced
  • Salt – to taste
  • Pepper – to taste
  • Grated Hard Cheese Parmesan or Grana Padano – optional for topping

Instructions
 

  • Cook the casarecce pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 9-11 minutes, until al dente.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in fresh sage and the zest of one lemon. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  • Add the lemon juice and mix well to create the sauce.
  • Drain the cooked pasta, reserving some pasta cooking water. Add the pasta to the pan with the sauce, and toss to combine. Add some pasta water if the sauce needs to be loosened.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve with optional grated Parmesan or Grana Padano on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Notes

Cooking Tip: Save some of the pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
This dish pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a refreshing Limonata for a non-alcoholic option.
If you prefer a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or butter to the lemon-sage mixture.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.