This Creamy Feta Pasta Without Tomatoes is a luscious twist on the viral sensation. With rich feta, dreamy cream, and aromatic herbs, this pasta promises a quick, flavorful escape from the ordinary.
I decided to reimagine this feta and cream pasta recipe to reach for when I’m not in the mood for a tomato-based pasta sauce.
Admittedly this feta pasta sauce is incredibly rich, since the tomatoes we’re omitting would have balanced out the dish, but I don’t mind that at all.
For extra texture, I like to toss in baked asparagus with parmesan for some crunch, and serve it with panzanella without mozzarella.
More Pasta Recipes To Try
4 Cheese Pasta (Cheesecake Factory Copycat)
One Pot Curry Pasta (No Coconut Milk)
Easy Meatball Pasta Sauce
Olive Garden Copycat Marinara Sauce
Easy Curry Pasta Sauce
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy: Ready in no time, perfect for busy schedules.
Few ingredients: Simple pantry staples for effortless preparation.
Minimal cleanup: One-pan wonder for a hassle-free cooking experience.
Family favorite: Loved by both kids and adults for its creamy, palatable flavors.
Ideal for meal prep: Great for making ahead and reheating for busy days.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Creamy Feta Pasta Without Tomatoes
Feta cheese: Choose a good-quality feta for a rich flavor.
Pasta: Use your favorite type, such as penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or any other you like.
Heavy cream: Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich earthiness, but any cooking oil can be used as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Dried oregano and basil: Feel free to use fresh herbs if available. Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for variation.
Red pepper flakes: Optional for a bit of heat.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste. Consider using seasoned salts or flavored pepper for added depth.
Baby spinach: Swap out for pan-seared asparagus for an extra earthy taste.
Fresh parsley: Garnish with cilantro, basil, chives, or dill, if you don’t have parsley on hand.
How To Make Feta Pasta Without Tomato: Step by step
Making this pasta with feta sauce is quick and super easy, and doesn’t even require any special cooking skills at all. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Boil The Pasta
Boil your favorite pasta until al dente.
Step 2: Creamy Sauce
Preheat a pan and add olive oil and/or butter.
Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream and heat through.
Add cubed feta cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Season with dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
Step 3: Combining Pasta & Sauce
Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy feta sauce until evenly coated.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley or herbs of your choice.
Serve immediately.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Quality feta: Opt for high-quality feta cheese for a richer sauce. Consider exploring different varieties for unique taste profiles.
Al dente pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the creamy sauce.
Fresh herbs: While dried herbs work well, using fresh oregano and basil can elevate the dish’s aroma and flavor.
Garlic infusion: Allow the minced garlic to infuse the olive oil, releasing its flavors before adding the cream.
Creamy consistency: Adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of heavy cream.
Spice level: Control the heat by adjusting the red pepper flakes or omitting them entirely. Taste and customize to your taste.
Add-ins: Enhance the dish with sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Grilled chicken or shrimp can also be delightful additions.
Even coating: Ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy feta sauce for consistent flavor in every bite.
Storage
Store leftover No Tomato Feta Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, use the microwave for a quick option or the oven at a low temperature to retain the creamy texture.
For best results, add a splash of milk or cream during reheating to maintain the pasta’s moisture.
Creamy Pasta With Feta FAQs
Absolutely! While feta provides a distinctive tangy flavor, you can experiment with goat cheese, ricotta, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components like the creamy sauce in advance. Combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu during the final toss to add protein. Sautéed mushrooms or spinach are excellent vegetarian options.
An effortlessly delicious dish, perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend indulgence. Enjoy the creamy goodness and savor the simplicity of this comforting pasta recipe. Let me know if you decide to try it!
Creamy Feta Pasta Without Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 8 ounces about 225g pasta
- 1 block of feta cheese about 8 ounces or 225g
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a bit of heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Baby spinach as much as you like
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, add dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Cut the feta cheese into small cubes and add them to the cream sauce in the pan. Stir continuously until the feta is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Once the feta is fully melted, add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Add the pasta in the creamy sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
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