Browned Butter and Mizithra Cheese Spaghetti is a simple yet delicious dish that celebrates the rich flavors of browned butter and the unique taste of Mizithra cheese. This pasta is quick to prepare and is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that will impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is worth making because it combines the nutty flavor of browned butter with the sharpness of Mizithra cheese, creating a delightful taste experience. It’s easy to whip up in under 20 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy days. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce Mizithra cheese, which is not commonly used but adds a distinct and enjoyable flavor to the dish.
How to Make Browned Butter and Mizithra Cheese Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup grated Mizithra cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook 8 ounces of spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until al dente.
- While the noodles are cooking, melt ½ cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. The butter will start to foam and slowly turn brown. This takes about 5 minutes, so keep an eye on it.
- Drain the pasta but do not rinse it. Place the pasta in a serving bowl.
- Pour the browned butter over the pasta. Sprinkle with ½ cup of grated Mizithra cheese and toss to coat well.
- If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish.
How to Serve Browned Butter and Mizithra Cheese Spaghetti
Serve the Browned Butter and Mizithra Cheese Spaghetti hot, right after preparing it. You can pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the butter is warm and the flavors are vibrant.
How to Store Browned Butter and Mizithra Cheese Spaghetti
If you have leftovers, store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little extra butter if needed to bring back the creaminess.
Tips to Make Browned Butter and Mizithra Cheese Spaghetti
- Watch the butter closely as it browns, as it can burn quickly.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of Mizithra cheese to suit your taste.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or lemon zest before serving.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding cooked vegetables like spinach or peas for some color and nutrition. Additionally, grilled chicken or shrimp can be added for more protein.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use other types of cheese?
A1: Yes, while Mizithra cheese is recommended for its unique flavor, you can use other cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino if that’s what you have on hand.
Q2: Is the dish suitable for vegetarians?
A2: Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: While the pasta can be cooked ahead, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you must make it ahead, store it in the fridge and reheat gently while adding more butter for moisture.
Browned Butter and Mizithra Cheese Spaghetti
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles Cook according to package directions
- ½ cup butter Use unsalted butter for best flavor
- ½ cup grated Mizithra cheese Adjust according to taste
- to taste chopped parsley For garnish, optional
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook 8 ounces of spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until al dente.
- While the noodles are cooking, melt ½ cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat, watching closely as it foams and turns brown, approximately 5 minutes.
- Drain the pasta but do not rinse. Place the pasta in a serving bowl.
- Pour the browned butter over the pasta. Sprinkle with ½ cup of grated Mizithra cheese and toss to coat well.
- If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish.
