Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta

This Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta takes me back to lovely spring evenings spent outdoors. Picture a warm sunny day, the scent of fresh herbs in the air, and a table set with laughter and good company. I wanted to create a dish that captures that essence, combining bright flavors and creamy textures. The addition of grilled asparagus adds a lovely touch, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a delightful dinner for two. Every bite of this pasta is like a mini-vacation on a plate. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dish is sure to impress.

What Goes Into Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta

Great dishes start with quality ingredients. The Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta features fresh, vibrant elements like asparagus and lemon, which brighten up the creamy base created by mascarpone and feta. These ingredients work in harmony to create a dish that is both comforting and refreshing.

• 1 pound long cut pasta (I used Diada De Laurentiis Pasta from Target) – The base of the dish, providing a hearty texture that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 1 large bunch asparagus, ends trimmed – Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color, perfect for spring.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Enhances flavors and helps in grilling the asparagus.
• Salt and fresh black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (may substitute cream cheese if needed) – The creamy heart of the sauce, providing a luscious texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Adds smoothness and richness to the dish.
• 2 cups milk (I used 2%) – Balances the creaminess while keeping the sauce light.
• 8 ounces feta cheese, finely crumbled or grated – A salty and tangy addition that complements the creaminess.
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dish and adds a refreshing zing.
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest – Enhances the lemon flavor and adds aroma.
• Pinch of crushed red pepper (optional) – Adds a hint of spice to elevate the dish.
• 1/4 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped – Freshens up the dish and adds color.

Directions for Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta

Making this pasta dish is a breeze. Follow these steps to create a creamy, zesty meal that will impress anyone at your table. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to ensure the pasta is well-seasoned while cooking. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside. You want the pasta to be firm to the bite as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
2. Preheat your grill to high heat while the pasta cooks. You can also roast the asparagus. Place the asparagus in a baking dish, coat with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill the asparagus for 5 to 10 minutes until nicely charred and fork-tender, turning occasionally for even cooking. Remove from the grill and chop into thirds.
3. If you prefer roasting, preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a roasting pan. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes or until tender and slightly crisp. Once done, chop into thirds.
4. In a large skillet with high sides over medium-high heat, add the butter, heavy cream, milk, mascarpone, and feta cheese. Stir to combine, allowing the mixture to come to a boil while whisking frequently. This helps melt the cheeses and create a smooth sauce.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until smooth and creamy. The sauce will slightly thicken during this process. Stir gently to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
6. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of crushed red pepper, along with a good pinch of pepper. Whisk continuously until combined and the sauce is glossy.
7. Now, it’s time to add the cooked pasta and chopped asparagus to the sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that each piece of pasta is well coated with the delicious creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes on low heat, just to warm through.
8. Finally, sprinkle with parsley and give it one last gentle toss. This adds a lovely freshness and flavor to the Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra feta cheese or parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delightful meal with good company!

Ways to Customize

The beauty of the Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta lies in its versatility. You can make this dish your own with a few easy tweaks. Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Substitute Vegetables: Swap out the asparagus for seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for a different flavor.
• Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill to change the flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Mix in some goat cheese for a tangy bite or use a different type of cheese to suit your taste.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add some chopped jalapeños.
• Vegan Version: Try substituting the dairy with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheese.

What to Serve Alongside Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta

When serving the Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta, you have plenty of delightful options to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is a perfect pairing to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Arugula Salad: A simple salad with arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved parmesan adds a crisp contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Grilled Chicken: Adding grilled chicken on the side makes for a satisfying protein boost.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans to complement the dish’s flavors.
• White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water can enhance your dining experience.
• Seasonal Fruit Salad: Finish your meal with a refreshing seasonal fruit salad for a light dessert option.
• Picnic Style: This dish is excellent for picnics, so consider taking it with sides like cheese, olives, and crusty bread.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta is truly a standout dish that combines creamy indulgence with zesty brightness. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends. I encourage you to try making it and experience the burst of flavors for yourself. This pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, this Simple Lemony Feta and Mascarpone Pasta is creamy, tangy, and incredibly satisfying. With fresh asparagus and a zesty lemon kick, it's an easy weeknight dinner that feels special. Try making it tonight for a delicious meal!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 580

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound long cut pasta I used Diada De Laurentiis Pasta from Target
• 1 large bunch asparagus ends trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• salt to taste
• fresh black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese may sub cream cheese if needed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups milk I used 2%
• 8 ounces feta cheese finely crumbled or grated
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• pinch crushed red pepper optional
• 1/4 cup flat leaf parsley chopped

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil the past according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
2. Preheat your grill to high heat. Place the asparagus in a baking dish, coat with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper over them. Grill the asparagus spears for 5-10 minutes, until nicely charred and just fork tender, turning them every few minutes so that they brown relatively evenly. Remove and chop into thirds.
3. Alternately, you may roast the asparagus by preheating the oven to 400 degrees. Place the asparagus in a roasting pan or on a baking baking sheet and toss with the 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and crisp. Remove and chop into thirds.
4. Heat a large skillet with high sides over medium-high heat, add the butter, cream, milk, and mascarpone and feta cheeses. Bring to a boil and simmer until smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper and a good pinch of pepper, whisking until the cheese has fully melted. Simmer the sauce 3-5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Add the pasta and asparagus to the sauce and toss well. Cook another 1-2 minutes to warm through. Add the parsley and toss. Serve immediately with fresh feta or parmesan.

Notes

• Tip 1: If your skillet is not big enough to toss the pasta in transfer everything to a large pot or serving bowl and toss well.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.