If you’re someone who loves a quick, fresh, and wonderfully creamy pasta dish, you’re in for a treat with this delightful Yogurt Pasta with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe. It’s a vibrant twist on traditional pasta sauces, bringing tangy yogurt’s silky texture together with fragrant garlic, savory Parmesan, and aromatic fresh herbs. This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a weekday dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple. The beauty lies in its balance of flavors and ease of preparation, giving you a bright, satisfying meal that will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Yogurt Pasta with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe, you only need a handful of everyday ingredients that pack so much flavor. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a creamy, herby, and lightly tangy pasta dish that’s bursting with personality.
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice): Choose your favorite shape to absorb the sauce perfectly and make the dish your own.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or plain yogurt): The star ingredient that gives creaminess and a subtle tanginess without heaviness.
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced or grated: Infuses the sauce with fragrant warmth and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Adds richness and a silky finish to the dish.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors, bringing everything together beautifully.
- Black pepper, to taste: Offers a gentle spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or crumbled feta (optional): For an extra hit of savory, salty goodness that melts into the pasta.
- Fresh mint, dill, or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and refreshing herbal notes.
- Red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper (optional for heat): Gives that subtle warmth and depth if you like a little spice.
How to Make Yogurt Pasta with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta from within, enhancing flavor. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions closely so your pasta has the perfect bite. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy water is your secret weapon for loosening the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, mix the plain Greek yogurt with the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper in a bowl. The garlic will infuse the yogurt with bright, savory notes. If your yogurt is particularly thick, whisk in a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency that will coat the pasta beautifully.
Step 3: Heat the Olive Oil or Butter
In a small pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter until it’s fragrant and shimmering. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper at this stage for a gentle heat that balances the cool yogurt sauce.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Immediately toss the hot pasta with the yogurt mixture so the sauce evenly coats each strand or piece. If it feels too thick, gradually add a bit more of the reserved pasta water. This will make the sauce silky and luscious, clinging wonderfully to the pasta.
Step 5: Drizzle and Garnish
Finish by drizzling the warm butter or olive oil over the pasta for a glossy, rich touch. Add grated Parmesan or crumbled feta if using, and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. These final touches add color, texture, and a burst of fresh, aromatic flavors you’ll love.
How to Serve Yogurt Pasta with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley, dill, or mint instantly lifts this pasta to restaurant quality. These greens provide a herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the cool yogurt and rich cheese. A dusting of extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add that final flavor pop.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in lemon vinaigrette or lightly roasted vegetables, which bring texture and freshness. Crusty bread or garlic toast are also fantastic alongside for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta chilled or at room temperature on a warm day, turning it into a refreshing, creamy salad. You can also fold in cherry tomatoes, olives, or grilled chicken for a heartier dish. For dinner parties, garnish each serving with edible flowers or microgreens to really impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Yogurt Pasta with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the yogurt, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors mellow wonderfully overnight.
Freezing
This pasta is not ideal for freezing as the yogurt sauce may separate and lose its creamy texture when thawed. For best results, prepare fresh or store refrigerated and consume within a couple of days.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat or microwaving directly which can cause the yogurt to curdle. Stir frequently until warmed through, and finish with a quick drizzle of olive oil for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Absolutely! Regular plain yogurt works just fine, though it’s a bit less thick and creamy than Greek yogurt. You might want to strain it beforehand or adjust by adding less pasta water so the sauce stays silky.
What pasta shape works best for this recipe?
Any pasta shape you love will work! Spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle are all great because they hold the yogurt sauce nicely. Pick according to your mood or pantry availability.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is vegetarian as written, especially if you opt for Parmesan made with vegetarian rennet or substitute with crumbled feta. It’s a satisfying meal without any meat.
Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy chickpeas make excellent additions for extra protein and texture. Just toss them in with the pasta before serving.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper during the butter or oil warming step amps up the heat and flavor. You can also sprinkle more on top as you serve for a little extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Yogurt Pasta with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe is one of those gems you’ll find yourself craving again and again. It’s fresh, creamy, and layered with flavors that come together so effortlessly. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just love simple yet stunning meals, this pasta has you covered. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved standby in your kitchen!
Print
Yogurt Pasta with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This quick and creamy Yogurt Pasta recipe combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with garlic and olive oil for a light yet flavorful dish. Perfect for a fast weeknight meal, it uses simple ingredients and minimal cooking time to create a comforting pasta that’s delicious served with fresh herbs and optional cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz (about 1/2 lb) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or regular plain yogurt)
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For Cooking & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or crumbled feta (optional)
- Fresh mint, dill, or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the yogurt sauce: While the pasta cooks, in a bowl, mix the yogurt with minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. If the yogurt is very thick, whisk in a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce for better coating.
- Heat oil or butter: In a small pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat until warm. Optionally, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper to infuse some heat and flavor.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the hot pasta immediately with the prepared yogurt sauce until evenly coated. Add more reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a silky and smooth sauce consistency.
- Drizzle and garnish: Pour the warm olive oil or melted butter over the pasta. Top with fresh herbs such as mint, dill, or parsley, and sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese if using. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier consistency, or regular plain yogurt thinned with some pasta water.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency and make it silky.
- Adding herbs and cheese is optional but adds freshness and depth of flavor.
- Adjust garlic and pepper quantities according to personal preference.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately to prevent the yogurt sauce from curdling or separating.
- For a vegan version, substitute yogurt with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil instead of butter.
