Looking for an easy comfort meal? This Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its zesty lemon flavor and creamy feta sauce, this dish is a delightful blend of Mediterranean cuisine that can elevate any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta recipe will impress with its rich flavors and simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from prep to plate, perfect for those hectic evenings.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of lemon and feta creates a refreshing and creamy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Fresh Ingredients: Packed with seasonal vegetables like asparagus, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy texture and zesty flavor make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To whip up your Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Getting the right tools ensures cooking is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta, providing enough space for it to cook evenly.
- Skillet: Used for sautéing garlic and asparagus, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Whisk: Helps combine the feta sauce ingredients smoothly for a creamy texture.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled, preferably Saputo)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
For the Pasta
- 6 oz. asparagus (about 12 spears, woody ends removed and cut into 1½ inch pieces)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 400 g cooked linguine pasta
How to Make Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the linguine in salted water according to package instructions until just shy of al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Feta Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil until well combined. Add the crumbled feta along with a pinch of black pepper. Whisk until you achieve a creamy consistency. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Asparagus
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then add asparagus pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until tender-crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Remove asparagus from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Hot Pasta Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. In a small cup, whisk together flour and water until smooth; stir this mixture into the simmering cream. Continue cooking while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens—about 10 minutes. Stir in chopped parsley along with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add cooked pasta to your hot pasta sauce, tossing well to coat evenly. Remove from heat and pour over the lemon feta sauce, mixing thoroughly. Gently fold in cooked asparagus.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional parsley if desired.
This Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe makes an effortless yet elegant meal that is sure to become one of your favorites!
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe
Serving your Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta perfectly can elevate this delightful dish. Here are some creative ideas to enhance your dining experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and freshness.
- Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the lemon.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the pasta.
- Greek Salad: Fresh veggies and feta in a Greek salad harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the pasta.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce.
- Ciabatta Rolls: Soft ciabatta rolls can be served warm, ideal for dipping into the sauce.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
- Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the citrus notes in this dish.
- Pinot Grigio: This light wine enhances the overall flavors without overpowering them.
How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe
To make your Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and high-quality feta cheese will enhance flavor significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; add salt and pepper gradually to achieve your preferred flavor balance.
- Don’t Overcook Asparagus: Keep asparagus tender-crisp to maintain its vibrant color and texture.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water can be added to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try adding parmesan or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, include grilled chicken or shrimp to complement the pasta.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic oil add nutrition and flavor.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers offer a refreshing appetizer choice.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes a great starter.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and a nutty flavor that complements pasta nicely.
- Grilled Zucchini: Smoky grilled zucchini slices provide a healthy side that pairs well with creamy dishes.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed in Caesar dressing offers crunch and tanginess alongside the rich pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delightful dish every time.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta longer than needed can make it mushy. Always check for al dente and reserve some pasta water for the sauce.
- Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality feta or cream can affect flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to elevate your dish.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland pasta. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to enhance flavors.
- Rushing the Sauce Preparation: Skipping steps in creating the sauce can result in a less creamy texture. Take your time to whisk and combine ingredients well.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Can be stored for up to 2 months, but note that cream may change in texture.
Reheating Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warm, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions regarding the Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe.
How do I make the sauce creamier?
To achieve a creamier sauce, ensure you whisk the flour into the heavy cream smoothly. Adding more cheese can also enhance richness.
Can I use different pasta types?
Absolutely! While linguine is recommended, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta like penne or fusilli for variety.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
Can I customize the vegetables?
Definitely! You can add other veggies such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Its creamy texture combined with zesty lemon makes it a comforting meal that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables or proteins to make it your own!
Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe
Looking for a quick and delicious comfort meal? This Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe combines the tangy zest of lemon with the rich creaminess of feta cheese, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy dinner gatherings. With fresh asparagus and a few simple ingredients, this Mediterranean-inspired pasta is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this flavorful dish will elevate your dining experience and leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 400g cooked linguine pasta
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 6 oz asparagus (cut into pieces)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the linguine in salted water until just shy of al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a bowl, whisk lemon zest, juice, olive oil, crumbled feta, and pepper until creamy.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add asparagus and season with salt and pepper until tender-crisp.
- In the same skillet, melt butter; add heavy cream and bring to simmer. Whisk flour with water; stir into the sauce until thickened.
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce; mix in the lemon-feta sauce and asparagus.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
