Description
Anna Paul’s Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe combines creamy Greek yogurt sauce with smoky tomato paste and spicy chili flakes, topped with fragrant mint butter and fresh parsley. This easy stovetop dish delivers a rich, tangy, and mildly spicy flavor profile, perfect for a quick and satisfying vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried mint (or fresh, finely chopped)
- Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In a large pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the tomato paste, paprika, chili flakes, and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the tomato paste slightly caramelizes.
- Add Yogurt: Reduce the heat to low. Quickly stir in the Greek yogurt, mixing thoroughly to prevent the yogurt from curdling. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly with the sauce.
- Make Mint Butter: In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted and foamy, stir in the dried mint. Let the butter bubble and sizzle with the mint for about 30 seconds to infuse the flavors.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle the fragrant mint butter over the coated pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of Greek yogurt and sour cream.
- Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms to increase protein content.
- Fresh mint can be used instead of dried mint for a more vibrant aroma and taste.
