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Creamy Fresh Herb Pasta with Goat Cheese

creamy fresh herb pasta with goat cheese - featured image
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A quick and easy pasta dish featuring a creamy goat cheese sauce blended with fresh herbs, perfect for cozy dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, fusilli, linguine, or preferred shape)
  • 6 ounces (170 grams) fresh goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped chives
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. While pasta cooks, warm 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Lower the heat and add 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir gently and warm through for 2-3 minutes without boiling.
  4. Add 6 ounces (170 grams) of crumbled goat cheese. Stir continuously until it melts and blends into a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add about 1/4 cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  5. Drain pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce.
  6. Toss pasta gently in the sauce over low heat. Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1/4 cup chopped basil, and 2 tablespoons chopped chives. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and herbs to release aroma.
  8. Turn off heat, sprinkle 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional), toss gently, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use room temperature goat cheese to avoid clumping. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add fresh herbs at the end to keep flavors bright. Avoid overheating cream and cheese to prevent sauce breaking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, goat cheese pasta, fresh herbs, easy dinner, quick pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://tomyumy.com/creamy-fresh-herb-pasta-with-goat-cheese-easy-homemade-recipe-for-dinner/