Lemon Myzithra Bliss
A Mediterranean Delight
Lemon Myzithra Bliss is a delightful homage to the flavors of the Mediterranean. This dish combines the zesty punch of lemon, the creamy texture of myzithra cheese, and the rich goodness of traditional olive oil-infused pasta. Originating from the sun-dappled shores of Greece, myzithra is a soft, whey cheese typically derived from sheep's or goat's milk, making this dish a perfect accompaniment to any Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- Lemon - 2 whole, juiced and zested
- Myzithra cheese - 200 grams, crumbled
- Pasta - 500 grams of your choice (spaghetti or linguini preferred)
- Olive oil - 50 ml
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - freshly ground, to taste
- Parsley - fresh, to garnish
Preparation
Before starting the cooking timer, ensure that all ingredients are prepped and ready. This includes juicing and zesting the lemon, crumbling the myzithra cheese, and mincing the garlic. Boil a large pot of water with a pinch of salt for the pasta.
Cooking Instructions
- Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook as per the package instructions or until al dente. For timing, set your cooking timer accordingly.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about a minute.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the lemon juice and zest. Stir well to combine with the oil and garlic.
- Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss with the lemony garlic mixture.
- Add the myzithra cheese gradually, allowing it to melt and coat the pasta. Use the reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss everything to ensure even seasoning.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoying Your Dish
Lemon Myzithra Bliss is best enjoyed warm, allowing the creamy myzithra and fragrant lemon to enliven your senses. Accompany this dish with a crisp white wine, like a Santorini Assyrtiko, to complement the citrusy notes. Picture yourself dining al fresco, surrounded by olive groves and cradled by the Mediterranean breeze.