I love making Zesty Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta when I want a bright, refreshing dish that still feels rich and comforting. The tangy feta melts into a creamy sauce, while fresh lemon adds a vibrant citrus kick that makes every bite feel lively.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I appreciate how this recipe combines simple ingredients to create bold, balanced flavor. The saltiness of the feta pairs beautifully with the fresh lemon zest and juice. I also enjoy how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for weeknights. It feels light yet satisfying, and I can easily customize it with vegetables or protein if I want something heartier.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
Directions
I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, I reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
I crumble the feta into the skillet and stir gently as it begins to soften. I add the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
I add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. I gradually pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water, stirring until a creamy sauce forms that coats the pasta evenly.
I season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. I finish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
I find this recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and freshness. When I want more protein, I stir in grilled chicken or shrimp. I also enjoy using whole wheat pasta for a heartier texture. For extra creaminess, I mix in a spoonful of ricotta.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. While I can microwave it, I find stovetop reheating maintains a better texture.
FAQs
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
Yes, I can use crumbled feta, though I find block feta tends to melt more smoothly.
How do I keep the sauce creamy?
I add reserved pasta water gradually and stir well to create a smooth, emulsified sauce.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, I can use a dairy-free feta alternative to achieve a similar tangy flavor.
Is this pasta very tangy?
It has a bright lemon flavor, but I can adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit my preference.
What pasta shapes work best?
I prefer penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni because they hold the creamy sauce well.
Conclusion
I love how Zesty Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta brings together tangy feta and fresh lemon in a simple yet flavorful dish. The creamy texture and bright citrus notes make it both comforting and refreshing. It’s a recipe I turn to whenever I want something quick, vibrant, and satisfying.
