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Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta

Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta: A Quick and Tangy Comfort Feast

Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta is a quick and delightful comfort food that balances zesty lemon with rich feta cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Any pasta shape (penne, spaghetti), gluten-free options also acceptable.
For the Sauce
  • 4 ounces Crumbled Feta Cheese Substitution: Vegetarian cheese for a vegetarian dish or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitution: Half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • ½ cup Reserved Pasta Water Used to loosen the sauce without losing flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Fruity and aromatic, provides a foundation for flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced, adds savory depth and aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Infuses brightness into the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Substitution: Lime juice for a different citrus kick.
  • ½ teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional, depending on heat preference.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Finish
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • ¼ cup Chopped Fresh Parsley
  • 2 slices Lemon Slices For garnish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Add your preferred pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water for later use, then drain the pasta and set it aside in the pot.
  2. In a large skillet, pour in a couple of tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, watching closely to prevent browning.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream, followed by lemon zest and lemon juice into the skillet. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, and gently stir in the crumbled feta cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Keep stirring for about 2-3 minutes until the feta is fully integrated.
  5. Add the reserved cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring every strand is coated evenly. Slowly add the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  6. Give your dish a taste test, and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
  7. Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, stirring until they meld into the creamy sauce.
  8. Plate your Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta and garnish with additional lemon slices and extra crumbled feta for a beautiful presentation.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Reserve pasta water before draining to achieve perfect sauce consistency. Avoid overcooking garlic and use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

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