Leek, Walnut & Goat’s Cheese Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This leek, walnut, and goat’s cheese pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines creamy cheese with crunchy walnuts and tender leeks. It’s a comforting meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients
- 200g short pasta (such as casarecce)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 leek, thinly sliced
- 30g walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)
- 100g soft goat’s cheese (ensure it’s vegetarian if needed)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve a mugful of the cooking water, then drain the pasta thoroughly.
- Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced leeks and chopped walnuts, season well with salt and pepper, then reduce the heat to medium and cook gently for 10–12 minutes until the leeks are softened.
- Step 3: Stir in the crushed garlic and chilli flakes if using. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with a generous splash of the reserved pasta water. Crumble in half the goat’s cheese and stir gently to melt it into the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 5: Serve the pasta with the remaining goat’s cheese dotted on top for extra creaminess and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten intolerance.
- Swap walnuts for toasted pine nuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an added fresh note.
- For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of cream along with the goat’s cheese.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan, adding a little water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed, to avoid drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat’s cheese?
Yes, cream cheese or ricotta can be good substitutes, though the flavor will be milder. For a stronger taste, feta can also work well.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as you use vegetarian-friendly goat’s cheese (one made without animal rennet).
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Leek, Walnut & Goat’s Cheese Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender leeks, crunchy walnuts, and soft goat’s cheese. This quick and easy recipe combines gently sautéed leeks and walnuts with al dente pasta, finished with melting goat’s cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 200g short pasta (casarecce recommended)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 leek, thinly sliced
- 30g walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)
- 100g soft goat’s cheese (ensure it’s vegetarian if needed)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a mugful of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta thoroughly.
- Sauté leeks and walnuts: Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced leeks and chopped walnuts, season with salt and pepper, then reduce the heat to medium. Cook gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the leeks are softened and walnuts are lightly toasted.
- Add garlic and chilli flakes: Stir in the crushed garlic cloves and chilli flakes if using. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Toss pasta with leek mixture: Add the drained pasta to the pan along with a generous splash of the reserved pasta cooking water. Stir well to combine and allow the goat’s cheese to begin melting into the pasta.
- Add goat’s cheese: Crumble half of the goat’s cheese into the pasta, stirring to incorporate and create a creamy texture. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving dishes and dot over the remaining goat’s cheese for added richness and flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use casarecce or any other short pasta like penne or rigatoni for best texture and sauce cling.
- The chilli flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to the dish.
- Reserve pasta water helps loosen the sauce and bind flavors effectively.
- Ensure the goat’s cheese used is soft for better melting and creaminess.
- For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: leek pasta, goat cheese pasta, walnut pasta, vegetarian pasta, easy pasta recipe, Italian pasta dish
