Why You’ll Love Creamy Lemon Feta Linguine Recipe
This pasta dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The creamy sauce coats every strand of linguine, while the lemon adds a vibrant freshness that keeps the dish from feeling heavy. Feta cheese brings a salty, tangy depth that pairs beautifully with sautéed garlic and crisp-tender asparagus.
You’ll also appreciate how quickly it comes together. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s vegetarian-friendly and easy to customize with your favorite additions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
linguine pasta
asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
garlic, minced
extra virgin olive oil
butter
heavy cream
all-purpose flour
water
feta cheese, crumbled
lemon zest
fresh lemon juice
fresh parsley, chopped
salt
black pepper
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until just al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper and cook until tender-crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
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Stir in chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper to taste.
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In a separate bowl, combine the crumbled feta, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix until creamy.
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Add the cooked linguine to the cream sauce and toss to coat evenly. Remove the skillet from heat.
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Gently fold the lemon feta mixture into the pasta until well combined. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
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Return the asparagus to the skillet and toss everything together. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley or feta if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Add protein by topping the pasta with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy chickpeas.
Swap asparagus for broccoli, spinach, peas, or zucchini depending on what you have on hand.
For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce.
Use whole wheat pasta for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a slightly lighter sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or water to loosen the sauce as it heats. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to maintain a smooth texture.
Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces can separate and change texture once thawed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne work well if you don’t have linguine on hand.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it contains no meat. Just ensure your feta cheese is made with vegetarian-friendly rennet if that’s important to you.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead and combine them just before serving.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a small amount of reserved pasta water, milk, or cream to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
What if the sauce is too thin?
Let it simmer a little longer to thicken, stirring frequently.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
How do I keep the asparagus from getting mushy?
Cook it just until tender-crisp and remove it from the heat promptly to maintain its texture.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms make great additions.
What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple green salad and crusty bread pair beautifully with the creamy, tangy flavors of this dish.
Conclusion
Creamy Lemon Feta Linguine is a flavorful, satisfying meal that combines richness and brightness in every bite. With its creamy texture, fresh lemon notes, and tender vegetables, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or a special homemade treat, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.
