Creamy Lemon Pasta

ZESTY PASTA

Despite the fact it's slowly getting into that autumnal part of the year - I am still clinging onto the strings of summer! And how am I doing this? Through super light, zesty and fresh pasta!

There are many great things about this lemon-y pasta dish - check out my reasons why:

1) Low and Healthy Fat Content - with use of a fat free yogurt as the bulk for the sauce, the only fat you are getting is from the butter. I personally choose an olive oil based butter as it is full of antioxidants and healthy fats. (See more about the health benefits of olive oil here).

2) Quick and Easy - This dish takes approx. 15 minutes to make and is great for a quick midweek meal. Additionally, all the ingredients are likely to be in your fridge!

3) Variety - I have only given the basic recipe, but this dish can be paired with numerous amounts of vegetables and/or meats and fish. Also provides a great basis for #meatfreemonday 's as well, which I personally have been getting into!

4) High in Vitamin C - Evidence shows that lemons are an attribute to its vitamin C content which can improve skin quality, encourage weight loss and improves digestion. Lemons (when consumed on a regular basis) also help with the treatment of constipation, dental problems, throat infections, fever, internal bleeding, rheumatism, burns, obesity, respiratory disorders, and high blood pressure. Furthermore, lemon is also known for its therapeutic properties, helping strengthen the immune system, cleanse your stomach, and is also considered a blood purifier. See more details about the health benefits of lemons here).

Hope you enjoy this scrumptious recipe below for your next meal!

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Serves: 2. Preparation and Cooking Time: 5 minutes for sauce + pasta cooking time.

INGREDIENTS

• 100 g wholewheat pasta

• 5 tbsp 0% fat Greek or dairy free yogurt

• 2 tbsp olive oil based butter or dairy free (or whatever you have to hand!)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 grated garlic clove

• 1/2 lemon (juiced)

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• salt to taste

METHOD

1. Start my grating lemon zest and garlic clove before setting to one side.

2. Bring a pot of water to the boil and cook wholewheat pasta according to packet instructions.

3. In a large non-stick pan, melt the butter over a medium-low heat.

4. Stir in the garlic, until soft and fragrant.

5. Whisk in the lemon juice with the butter and garlic mixture.

6. Remove pan from the heat and whisk in the Greek yogurt, lemon zest, black pepper and salt to taste. Then place back onto low heat to warm the sauce.

7. Drain the pasta, combine with the sauce and enjoy!

TIP: Obviously this can be combined with lots of other vegetables and/or meats and fish - I have just given you the basic recipe. My personal favourite is with smoked turkey bacon, broccoli, peas, onion and mushrooms!

Happy Cooking!

Ruth xxx