Description
This Creamy Lemon Greek Yogurt Pasta is a light yet indulgent dish combining tangy lemon, creamy Greek yogurt, and savory parmesan for a refreshing and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick dinner, it features protein pasta and a zesty sauce with shallots, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a hint of crushed red pepper for a subtle kick.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10 ounces protein pasta
Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup whole cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (warm)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the protein pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Combine Shallot and Garlic: In a large high-sided pan over medium heat, add olive oil, chopped shallot, and minced garlic.
- Cook and Combine: Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and shallots are slightly softened. Add fresh lemon juice, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and cherry tomatoes to the pan.
- Soften Tomatoes: Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the cherry tomatoes begin to soften but still hold their shape.
- Add Cream Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese until it melts into the sauce creating a creamy texture.
- Temper Yogurt: In a separate bowl, slowly whisk warm reserved pasta water into the plain Greek yogurt to temper it and prevent curdling.
- Combine Sauce: Lower the heat to low and gradually pour the tempered yogurt into the sauce while whisking continuously for about 5 minutes until fully combined and heated through.
- Add Pasta: Remove the pan from heat and gently toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring it is evenly coated with the creamy lemon sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley over the pasta before serving. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Tempering the Greek yogurt with warm pasta water is essential to prevent it from curdling when added to the hot sauce.
- Use protein-enriched pasta for a healthier meal option.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste for more or less heat.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice add a bright, zesty flavor to the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid breaking the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
