Why You’ll Love Creamy Lemon Feta Linguine Recipe

Creamy Lemon Feta Linguine brings together a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The creamy feta sauce combines with fresh lemon to provide a burst of citrusy brightness, while the cream adds a smooth, rich texture. The addition of asparagus adds a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta, making each bite an exciting combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a comforting dinner or impressing guests with an elegant dish, this pasta is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Asparagus:

Garlic
Asparagus (woody ends removed and cut into pieces)
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Feta Sauce:

Lemon zest and juice
Extra virgin olive oil
Feta cheese (crumbled)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Pasta Sauce:

Butter
Heavy cream
Flour
Water
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
Linguine pasta (cooked)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions, making sure to leave the pasta just shy of al dente. Once done, reserve a bit of pasta water for later, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Feta Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the feta sauce. In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil, and whisk until well blended. Add in the crumbled feta and stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set this aside while you work on the rest of the dish.

3. Cook the Asparagus

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the asparagus pieces and cook until they become tender yet still slightly crisp. Season with salt and pepper, then remove the asparagus from the pan and set it aside.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water until smooth, then gradually stir this mixture into the cream. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, then add freshly chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to season.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Remove the skillet from the heat, then pour the feta sauce over the top. Gently fold in the asparagus, mixing everything together until the pasta is well coated.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Creamy Lemon Feta Linguine immediately, garnished with extra parsley or more crumbled feta if desired. This dish is perfect on its own or paired with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread.

Tips and Variations

Protein Additions: If you want to add protein to this dish, try incorporating grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Veggie Substitutions: If asparagus isn’t your favorite, you can easily swap it out for broccoli florets, peas, or any other vegetable you prefer.
Lighter Version: For a lighter take on this dish, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil or dill can be added to the sauce for a burst of additional flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stove with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, though be sure to stir often to prevent the sauce from separating. Note that while the dish is best fresh, it will still be tasty the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Linguine is the ideal choice for this recipe, but you can easily swap it for spaghetti or fettuccine if you prefer.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian as it is made with feta cheese and does not contain any meat. It’s a great option for those looking for a meatless meal.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative and use a vegan feta cheese. You can also swap the butter for olive oil.

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Frozen asparagus can work well in this dish, but make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before sautéing to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

The mild and creamy flavor of this pasta makes it generally kid-friendly. The lemon adds a nice brightness, but it’s not overpowering, making it an enjoyable dish for younger taste buds.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Feta Linguine is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the fresh, bright flavor of lemon and feta. The pasta, combined with tender asparagus and a creamy sauce, creates a meal that is comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy and zesty flavors!