Save A comforting Turkish-inspired pasta dish featuring creamy garlic yogurt sauce, melted butter with paprika, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick vegetarian meal with a vibrant Mediterranean flair.
I first made this dish on a busy weeknight when I wanted something fast but special. The combination of yogurt and Turkish spices made everyone at my table ask for seconds.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g dried pasta (such as spaghetti or penne), 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- Garlic Yogurt Sauce: 2 cups plain full-fat yogurt, 2 cloves garlic (finely minced), 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- Spiced Butter: 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 1½ tsp sweet paprika (or Aleppo pepper for authentic flavor), ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped), 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain well.
- Prepare Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside at room temperature.
- Make Spiced Butter:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add paprika and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and let the butter foam and become fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Return drained pasta to the pot. Immediately add the yogurt sauce and toss quickly to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired creaminess.
- Plate and Garnish:
- Divide the pasta among plates. Drizzle spiced butter over each serving. Garnish generously with fresh dill and parsley. Serve immediately.
Save My family loved seeing a colorful dinner with simple ingredients that reminded us of summer travels in Istanbul. This has quickly become a weeknight favorite everyone happily eats.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, mixing bowl, small saucepan, whisk, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and milk (dairy). For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based yogurt and vegan butter.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 420, Total Fat 17 g, Carbohydrates 54 g, Protein 13 g
Save This pasta is so fresh and creamy, you'll want to make it again next week. Enjoy every bite and don't forget the herbs.
Recipe FAQ
- → Why use yogurt in the sauce?
Yogurt creates a creamy, tangy base that balances the garlic and spices, giving the dish its signature flavor and richness.
- → Can I substitute different herbs?
Yes, try fresh mint or chives in place of dill and parsley for an alternative, refreshing twist.
- → Is this meal suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the dish is vegetarian and can be adapted with plant-based yogurt and butter for dairy-free options.
- → What pasta types work best?
Spaghetti or penne are traditional, but you can use any pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce well.
- → How can I add extra protein?
Top the finished dish with poached or soft-boiled eggs for a heartier, protein-rich meal.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and verify ingredient labels for any potential allergens.