Description
Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the tangy brightness of fresh lemon with the rich creaminess of feta cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful pasta that is both comforting and satisfying. The creamy sauce, enhanced with garlic and optional red pepper flakes, creates a taste sensation that elevates your dinner experience. Enjoy this versatile dish on its own or paired with grilled chicken or seasonal veggies for added nutrition.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3. Stir in crumbled feta cheese, heavy cream (or milk), fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until the feta melts into a creamy sauce.
- 4. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- 5. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well-coated.
- 6. Serve garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. For a vegan option, substitute feta cheese with plant-based feta and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.