We had friends arrive from Rochester last night for a layover on their way to Paris.  Weather delayed them by several hours, so we finally arrived at the ol’ homestead about 9pm.  Just in time for a late dinner.

Victor planned a variation of the Linguine al Limone he made last month because it was something that could be tossed together rather quickly.  We know all too well the joy of air travel.  We planned for them not being on time.  And we were right.

The pasta was just perfect.  It has a bright lemon flavor that is not at all overwhelming for being as pronounced as it is.  It’s one of those recipes that just works.

Victor chose small bay scallops for the dish.  They blended in perfectly.

I also baked a loaf of the egg white bread.  It totally rocks.

Strozzapreti e Capesante al Limone

• 1 pound strozzapreti or other pasta
• 1 1/2 pounds bay scallops
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 lemons
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp freshly grated Grana Padano or Parmigiano-Reggiano plus more for sprinkling
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1/3 cup plus 1 tbsp whole milk
• 3 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tbsp finely chopped chives

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.  Add pasta and cook until al dente.

Quickly saute scallops in a drizzle of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter.  When barely heated through, drain excess liquid from pan.

Meanwhile, place egg yolks in a large bowl.  Grate the zest of 1 lemon into the bowl.  Add cheese and pepper; whisk to combine, then whisk in cream, milk, parsley, chives, and generous pinch of salt.

When pasta is al dente, drain and add to scallops.  Immediately add egg mixture and toss together to combine well, then divide among serving bowls.  Grate fresh lemon zest (from the remaining lemon) and cheese over the top.  Serve immediately.

This is one of those recipes that is so simple to prepare and so incredibly wonderful to eat, it’s going to be a staple in our home from now until forever.

And as I type this, Ann and Julie are jetting across the pond to Gay Paree.

I hate them.