Leek, Walnut & Goat’s Cheese Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This leek, walnut, and goat’s cheese pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The creamy goat’s cheese pairs beautifully with the crunchy walnuts and sweet, softened leeks. It’s an easy recipe that feels both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
- 200g short pasta (we used 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. Reserve a mugful of the pasta cooking water before draining 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 and reduce the heat to medium, cooking gently for 10-12 minutes until the leeks are softened.
- Step 3: Stir in the crushed garlic and chilli flakes, if using, and cook for a further 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add the drained pasta to the pan along with a generous splash of the reserved pasta water. Crumble in half of the goat’s cheese and stir to melt it into the sauce. Season to taste.
- Step 5: Serve the pasta topped with the remaining goat’s cheese dotted over. Enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use any short pasta you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni, if casarecce is unavailable.
- To add extra greens, stir in a handful of baby spinach or rocket at the end of cooking.
- If you like a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the leeks.
- For a milder version, omit the chilli flakes or reduce the quantity.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or microwave until warmed through. The goat’s cheese may soften further when reheated, adding to the creaminess.
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, creamy cheeses like ricotta or feta can be good substitutes. They will provide a different but equally delicious flavor and texture.
Is it necessary to reserve the pasta water?
Reserving the pasta water helps to loosen the sauce and create a silky texture that clings to the pasta. It’s recommended but you can use plain water or broth if needed.
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Leek, Walnut & Goat’s Cheese Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and comforting leek, walnut, and goat’s cheese pasta that combines creamy goat cheese with crunchy walnuts and tender leeks for a flavorful vegetarian meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a hint of warmth from optional chilli flakes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 200g short pasta (casarecce recommended)
Vegetables and Nuts
- 1 leek, thinly sliced
- 30g walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
Seasoning & Cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)
- 100g soft goat’s cheese (vegetarian if needed)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Once cooked, reserve a mugful of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- 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 until the leeks are softened and walnuts lightly toasted.
- Add Garlic and Chilli: Stir in the crushed garlic cloves and optional chilli flakes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the drained pasta to the pan with the leek mixture. Pour in a generous splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Crumble in half the goat’s cheese and stir until it melts, coating the pasta evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving dishes and dot the remaining goat’s cheese on top for extra creamy bursts. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Use casarecce or any other short pasta shape for best texture and sauce adherence.
- Reserve pasta water improves sauce creaminess without adding cream.
- Adjust chilli flakes or omit for less heat.
- Ensure goat’s cheese is vegetarian if required by checking for animal rennet.
- This dish is best served fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: leek pasta, goat cheese pasta, walnut pasta, vegetarian pasta recipe, quick pasta dish, easy dinner recipes
