This Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta is a delightful and refreshing twist on classic pasta dishes, combining the tangy flavor of feta cheese with the brightness of fresh lemon. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version), coats every bite of pasta in a luscious, zesty layer. The addition of garlic, lemon zest, and a touch of red pepper flakes makes this dish flavorful and a little spicy, balancing the richness of the feta and cream. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a romantic dinner for two, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes. With minimal ingredients, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but remains light and fresh. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra creamy finish. If you love pasta and the tangy, creamy combination of lemon and feta, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy
This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious but don’t have much time to cook.
2. Creamy and Zesty
The creamy feta sauce paired with the bright, tangy lemon creates a perfectly balanced and flavorful dish.
3. Customizable
Adjust the amount of lemon, garlic, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste. You can also add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra freshness.
4. Comforting Yet Light
With a creamy base but the freshness of lemon, this dish feels indulgent without being overly heavy, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions.
5. Great for Meal Prep
This pasta keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients
- Pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- Fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Add some fresh spinach, arugula, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes to make the dish more hearty and nutritious.
- Add Protein: For added protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits.
- Lighter Version: Use whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce that still maintains creaminess but with fewer calories.
- Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for more savory depth.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Add the crumbled feta cheese to the pan with garlic. Stir in the heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Add red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. If needed, add more pasta water to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta and can be used to adjust the consistency if the sauce is too thick.
- Use Fresh Feta: For the best flavor, use fresh, crumbled feta cheese rather than pre-packaged feta, which can be drier and less flavorful.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so make sure to sauté it over medium heat and watch carefully to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust Lemon Flavor: If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add a little more zest or lemon juice, depending on your taste.
- Make it Creamier: For a richer, creamier sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or even full-fat milk in place of the cream.
How to Serve
This creamy lemon feta pasta is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides such as:
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for a perfect dipping accompaniment.
- Grilled or baked chicken for an added protein option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a little splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce, and warm gently over low heat in a pan.
Freezing
While pasta dishes with creamy sauces can be tricky to freeze, you can freeze this pasta by storing it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat by thawing it in the refrigerator overnight and gently warming on the stovetop, adding extra liquid if necessary to restore the creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a small amount of water or milk and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a slightly different flavor, though it will change the dish’s overall taste and texture.
2. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes, you can use whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version. The sauce will be a little less rich but still delicious.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
This pasta can be made ahead, but it’s best to add the fresh herbs and Parmesan just before serving to preserve their flavor.
4. What kind of pasta should I use?
You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli. Choose your favorite or what you have on hand.
5. How can I make this spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add some freshly sliced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.
6. Can I use dried lemon zest?
Fresh lemon zest is best, but if you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use dried zest as a substitute in a pinch.
7. Can I freeze this pasta?
While the texture of the creamy sauce may change slightly upon freezing, you can freeze the pasta for up to 1 month. Just reheat slowly with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
8. Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or even roasted tomatoes is a great way to enhance the dish and add more nutrients.
9. Can I use low-fat feta cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat feta cheese for a lighter version, but keep in mind the flavor may be less rich and creamy.
10. Can I make this vegan?
To make it vegan, use plant-based feta cheese and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk.
Conclusion
Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta is an easy, light yet satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. With the creamy feta sauce balanced by the brightness of lemon, it offers a delightful combination of flavors that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you serve it on its own or with added protein and veggies, this pasta is perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a special meal with family and friends. Try it today and discover how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious!
PrintCreamy Lemon Feta Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta combines rich feta cheese and bright lemon flavors to create a smooth and tangy sauce. With the added touch of garlic and optional red pepper flakes for heat, this dish is a delightful, quick dinner option perfect for any occasion. Top with fresh herbs and Parmesan for a burst of freshness and extra creaminess!
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 (about 1 lemon)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese, heavy cream (or milk), fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir until the feta begins to melt and the sauce becomes creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir until well-coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or even a non-dairy milk like almond milk.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes for your preferred spice level.
- This pasta is delicious with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for added protein and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Quick Meals, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American