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Cheesy Orange Pasta

Cheesy Orange Pasta: A Zesty Twist on Comfort Food

This Cheesy Orange Pasta delivers a unique fusion of creamy cheese and zesty orange in a delightful, quick meal.
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Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Cheesy Orange Pasta, comfort food, creamy cheese, Easy Dinner, quick pasta recipe, zesty dish
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Calories: 550kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • colander

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 250 g Pasta of your choice penne or farfalle work beautifully

For the Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil used to sauté the garlic
  • 1 medium Orange zested and juiced
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 100 ml Heavy cream
  • 150 g Cheddar cheese grated
  • 50 g Parmesan cheese grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Grated orange zest for extra hint of citrusy brightness

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Orange Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve ¼ cup of cooking water.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add orange juice and zest to the skillet, simmering for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
  • Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
  • Combine pasta with sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to adjust thickness.
  • Serve garnished with fresh basil and additional grated orange zest.

Notes

For the best taste, consume fresh but these storage methods allow enjoyment later without sacrificing flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plate | Calories: 550kcal | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 10mg