Natalie

Natalie is the founder and creative mind behind itssoupy, a culinary space where cooking is celebrated as an art, a cultural journey, and a personal expression. Inspired by her early memories in her grandmother’s kitchen, Natalie channels her love for global flavors and home-cooked comfort into recipes that are both approachable and adventurous, welcoming cooks of all skill levels to explore the vibrant world of food.

Through itssoupy, Natalie shares a wide array of recipes, from cherished classics to bold, innovative dishes, always emphasizing fresh ingredients and step-by-step guidance. More than just a recipe hub, itssoupy is a community where Natalie encourages food lovers to connect, share their kitchen stories, and discover the joy of cooking together.

Latest from Natalie

For the best homemade pizza grilled cheese, you need just a few key ingredients. Start with sourdough bread. This bread gives a nice crunch and flavor. You can also use other types like ciabatta or whole wheat if you prefer.

BEST RECIPE For Homemade Pizza Grilled Cheese Delight

If you love pizza and grilled cheese, you’re in for a treat! This BEST RECIPE For Homemade Pizza Grilled Cheese

$To make creamy lemon feta pasta, gather these key ingredients: - 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or spaghetti work well) - 1 cup crumbled feta cheese - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat When making this dish, quality matters. Here are some tips: - Pasta: Choose a brand that cooks evenly. Look for bronze-cut pasta for better sauce adherence. - Feta Cheese: Go for a block of feta in brine. It has a fresher taste than crumbled feta. - Heavy Cream: Use pure heavy cream for the best texture. Avoid non-dairy creamers that may alter the taste. - Lemons: Pick firm, heavy lemons. They yield more juice and zest for a bright flavor. - Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and taste. Check for bright green leaves without wilting. If you have dietary needs, here are some swaps: - Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. - Dairy-Free: Try a plant-based cream and vegan feta for a dairy-free version. - Low-Fat: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. - Veggie Boost: Add spinach or peas for extra nutrients and color. With these tips and ingredient choices, you can create a delicious creamy lemon feta pasta that suits your taste and needs! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. First, boil salted water in a large pot for the pasta. 2. Add 8 oz of pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. 3. Save 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. 4. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 5. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. 6. Next, mix in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. 7. Stir until you get a creamy sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes. 8. Add 1/4 cup of lemon juice and zest from 1 lemon. 9. If the sauce is thick, add some reserved pasta water. 10. Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce. 11. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. 12. Finally, stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley for a fresh touch. - Always boil pasta in salted water. It enhances flavor. - Use a large skillet for the sauce. It helps with even cooking. - Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning. - Adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water. - Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color. - Boiling pasta: 8-10 minutes. - Sautéing garlic: 1 minute. - Mixing sauce: 3-4 minutes. - Tossing pasta and finishing: 2-3 minutes. - Total cooking time is about 25 minutes. To achieve a great creamy texture in your pasta, keep these tips in mind: - Use heavy cream for richness. - Crumble the feta cheese well before adding it to the skillet. - Stir the sauce gently to help it blend smoothly. - If the sauce seems thick, add pasta water little by little. - Cook the garlic just until fragrant to avoid burning. These steps ensure your sauce will be creamy and delightful. Many people make simple mistakes that affect the dish. Here are some to watch for: - Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy results. - Not reserving enough pasta water can make the sauce too thick. - Skipping the lemon zest will reduce the flavor. - Adding salt too early can make the pasta gummy. - Forgetting to mix in the fresh parsley at the end loses freshness. Avoiding these mistakes will help you create the best creamy lemon feta pasta. You can elevate the flavor of your dish with a few easy enhancements: - Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. - Toss in sautéed veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color. - Use a splash of white wine to deepen the flavor. - Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill for a twist. These enhancements will make your creamy lemon feta pasta even more delicious. Pro Tips Choose the Right Pasta: Pasta types like penne or spaghetti work best for this dish, as they hold the creamy sauce well. Adjust the Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Add More Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or some sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra lemon zest and fresh parsley not only enhances flavor but also makes your dish visually appealing. {{image_2}} You can boost the protein in your Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta easily. Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Both options pair well with the creamy sauce. Simply cook the protein separately and add it to the pasta at the end. For a heartier meal, use cooked sausage or bacon. These meats add a nice, savory flavor. For a vegetarian twist, you can use mushrooms or spinach. Sauté them along with the garlic for added flavor. If you want a vegan version, swap the feta for a plant-based cheese. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a rich texture. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can play with flavors by swapping ingredients. Instead of lemon, try lime for a zesty twist. You could also use sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can change the whole dish. If you like spice, add crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Each swap brings a new life to this dish! To keep your creamy lemon feta pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This helps prevent extra moisture, which can cause sogginess. Place the container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 days. Reheat the pasta on the stove for the best results. Add a splash of water or cream to help restore creaminess. Heat on low, stirring often. This prevents burning. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. You can freeze creamy lemon feta pasta, but it may change texture. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. Use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently as mentioned above. Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container. The pasta may absorb some sauce over time. To keep it creamy, add a splash of water or cream when reheating. Yes, you can make this pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, heat the sauce and mix in the pasta. This way, the pasta stays fresh and the sauce remains creamy. Pairing this dish with fresh sides enhances the meal. Here are some great options: - A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette - Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or zucchini - Garlic bread for a crunchy side - Steamed broccoli for extra greens These sides balance the richness of the pasta and add fresh flavors. In this post, we explored the ingredients needed for creamy lemon feta pasta, with tips on sourcing quality options and making substitutions for dietary needs. I shared a clear step-by-step guide, along with tips for perfect texture and flavor. We also covered variations to suit different tastes, plus storage methods to keep your dish fresh. Remember, your pasta can shine with the right choices and techniques. Enjoy making it your own!$

Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta Quick and Flavorful Recipe

Do you want a meal that’s quick, creamy, and packed with flavor? Look no further! This Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta

$- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 cup olive oil - 3 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 1 lemon, juiced and zested - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter - Fresh parsley for garnish I love using fresh ingredients for this dish. The chicken breasts give a nice, juicy bite. Flour, salt, and pepper help create a crispy crust. The olive oil adds warmth and flavor. Capers give a nice tangy kick. Chicken broth makes the sauce rich and soothing. Lemon juice and zest bring bright, fresh notes to the dish. Butter adds a silky finish to the sauce. Garnishing with parsley makes the dish pop with color. This recipe serves four, making it perfect for family meals. You can prep in just 15 minutes and serve in 30. Enjoy this easy and delicious meal on any weeknight! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Pound chicken to an even thickness. - Season and dredge in flour mixture. To start, I place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. I use a meat mallet to pound the chicken until it's about 1/2 inch thick. This step is key. It helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy. Next, I mix flour, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish. I dredge each chicken breast in this mixture, shaking off any excess flour. This creates a nice crust during cooking. - Searing the chicken in olive oil. - Cooking time and doneness tips. I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, I add the chicken breasts. I cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. I look for a golden-brown color to know they are ready. To check doneness, I use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F. After cooking, I remove the chicken and set it aside. - Sautéing capers and adding chicken broth. - Incorporating lemon juice and zest. In the same skillet, I add the capers and sauté them for about 1 minute. This brings out their flavor. Then, I pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet. This releases all those tasty browned bits. Next, I add the lemon juice and zest. I let the sauce simmer for about 4-5 minutes until it reduces slightly. - Finishing the sauce with butter. - Returning chicken to skillet and plating tips. I stir in the butter until it melts, making the sauce glossy. Then, I return the chicken to the skillet. I let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up all those amazing flavors. For serving, I garnish the chicken with fresh chopped parsley. I like to spoon the sauce over the top. I often serve it on a white plate. It makes the colors pop, especially with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh salad. To cook chicken breasts evenly, start by pounding them to about 1/2 inch thick. This step ensures that they cook at the same rate. Aim for a light touch; you don’t want to tear the meat. For the sauce, the right consistency is key. When simmering, let it reduce until it's slightly thickened. This helps it cling to the chicken. Stir in butter at the end for a shiny finish. It adds richness and depth to the flavor. To boost the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil. These can bring a new twist to the dish. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat if you like spice. Balancing acidity is also important. The lemon juice gives brightness, while the butter adds richness. Adjust the lemon to your taste. If it’s too tart, add more butter to soften the flavor. Pro Tips Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks uniformly, preventing some parts from drying out while others remain undercooked. Capers Rinsed: Rinsing the capers removes excess salt, allowing their tangy flavor to shine through without overpowering the dish. Glossy Sauce: Adding butter at the end not only enriches the sauce but also gives it a glossy finish, making the dish more visually appealing. Fresh Herbs: Always opt for fresh parsley as a garnish; it adds a burst of color and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. {{image_2}} You can easily change the recipe based on what you enjoy. If you do not like capers, try using chopped green olives. They add a nice briny flavor. Instead of lemon, use lime for a different taste. This swap gives the dish a fresh twist. For herbs, consider thyme or basil. Both add a lovely aroma and taste. You can mix them into the sauce for a new flavor. Experiment with spices like paprika or garlic powder for added depth. Just a pinch can change the whole dish. If you need a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. It works well for dredging the chicken. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend. This keeps the dish tasty and safe for those with gluten allergies. If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs are a great choice. They are juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook. This option adds richness to your meal. To keep your Chicken Piccata fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to cover the dish tightly to prevent air from getting in. Chicken Piccata stays tasty in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the flavors may fade, and the chicken can dry out. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, I recommend reheating gently. The best way is to use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat until warmed through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but use a low power setting and cover the dish. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze Chicken Piccata for up to three months. Just remember to use freezer-safe containers and label them. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. What is Chicken Piccata traditionally served with? Chicken Piccata is great with sides like pasta or rice. You can also pair it with steamed veggies, like asparagus. These sides balance the rich lemon sauce and make the meal complete. Can I make Chicken Piccata ahead of time? Yes, you can make Chicken Piccata ahead. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving. This saves time on busy weeknights. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? Check the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F in the thickest part. The meat should be white, not pink. This ensures your meal is safe to eat. What substitutions can I make if I don't have capers? If you don’t have capers, try using green olives or pickles. They add a similar briny flavor. You can also skip them if you want a milder taste. Can this recipe be made with fish instead of chicken? Yes, you can use fish like tilapia or salmon. Cook the fish for a shorter time. The lemon sauce will work well with fish, giving it a fresh, zesty kick. This Chicken Piccata recipe is simple and tasty. We covered key ingredients, from the chicken to the sauce. You learned how to prepare, cook, and serve it well. Tips and variations help you make it your own. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors or swap ingredients. Remember, storing and reheating correctly keeps this dish fresh. Enjoy your cooking adventure with Chicken Piccata!$