Name: Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta That Will Brighten Your Day Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (any shape, about 2 cups); 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled, opt for creamy, high-quality feta); 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin olive oil recommended); 3 cloves garlic (minced, fresh); 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed, adjust to taste); 1 lemon zest (finely grated); 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked, adjust for heat); salt (to taste); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

Description

This creamy lemon feta pasta is a bright and flavorful dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Combining zesty lemon juice and zest with rich, crumbly feta cheese, garlic, and a hint of olive oil, this pasta recipe offers a delightful balance of tangy and savory flavors. It’s ideal for a light lunch or dinner and can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it a convenient yet delicious option to brighten your day.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz pasta (any shape, about 2 cups)

Sauce & Flavorings

1 cup feta cheese (crumbled, opt for creamy, high-quality feta)
1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin olive oil recommended)
3 cloves garlic (minced, fresh)
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed, adjust to taste)
1 lemon zest (finely grated)
1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked, adjust for heat)
salt (to taste)

Garnish

1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes, then drain, reserving one cup of the pasta water for the sauce.
Sauté garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1/4 cup of olive oil. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine pasta and feta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the finely grated zest of 1 lemon. Stir well to evenly coat the pasta with these ingredients.
Create creamy sauce: Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring continuously until the sauce reaches a smooth and creamy consistency that coats the pasta beautifully.
Season the dish: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper and add salt to taste. Toss everything gently to blend the flavors fully.
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and top with chopped fresh parsley to add a fresh herbal note and color. Serve immediately and enjoy the bright, creamy pasta.

Notes

For best flavor, use high-quality, creamy feta cheese.
Adjust lemon juice and zest to your personal taste for a more or less tangy dish.
Reserve pasta water is essential to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
This recipe pairs well with a light green salad or grilled vegetables.
You can substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.