Walking into my kitchen, I can’t help but smile as the comforting aroma of spiced beef and creamy yogurt sauce fills the air. There’s something about the combination of these flavors that transports me to the heart of the Middle East—a culinary adventure just waiting to happen. I discovered this 30-Minute Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce during one of those frantic weeknight dinners when I craved something delicious yet quick to whip up.
Imagine twirling strands of mafalda corta pasta, perfectly coated in a luscious yogurt and tahini sauce, adding a refreshing twist to traditional creamy pasta dishes. Paired with sautéed ground beef and topped with crunchy pine nuts and fresh herbs, this meal is not just a feast for the senses, but also a nod to healthier dining choices. In just half an hour, you’ll bring spice and comfort into your home, transforming an ordinary evening into a flavorful experience that the whole family will love. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
Why is Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce so special?
Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
Unique Flavors: The creamy yogurt sauce, enriched with tahini and spices, offers a delightful twist that elevates the dish above standard pasta recipes.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with lean protein from the beef and fresh herbs, this pasta is a healthier alternative to heavier, cream-based meals.
Versatile Options: Easily modify the recipe by substituting ground beef for turkey or adding your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, this dish is sure to impress family and guests alike. Don’t forget to check out my tips for perfect pasta to elevate your culinary game!
Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Mafalda Corta – 400 g; the base of the dish, but feel free to use any pasta you love.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning the pasta; adjust according to your taste.
• Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons; for cooking pasta and meat, adjust based on dietary preferences.
For the Meat Mixture
• Ground Beef – 700 g extra lean; provides protein, but you can substitute with ground lamb or chicken.
• Onions – 2 cups chopped (about 2 medium); they add sweetness and depth to the beef.
• Allspice – 2 teaspoons; brings warmth to the dish; can be substituted with 7 spice.
• Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon; enhances the savory profile; optional if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Black Pepper – 1 teaspoon; for seasoning to taste.
• Tomato Sauce – 5 tablespoons; adds moisture and acidity, balancing the richness of the beef.
For the Yogurt Sauce
• Plain Full Fat Yogurt – 2.5 cups (750 g); the star ingredient; Greek yogurt can serve as a substitute.
• Tahini – 1/2 cup; provides a creamy element to the sauce, but nut butter can be used for a twist.
• Garlic – 1 large clove, crushed; infuses savory flavor into your sauce.
• Dried Mint – 4 teaspoons (adjust to preference); adds a refreshing note.
• Lemon – a squeeze to brighten the sauce’s flavor.
For Garnishing
• Toasted Pine Nuts – for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
• Fresh Herbs – optional garnishment such as parsley or mint to elevate your dish’s look and taste.
This Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce is not just delicious; it’s a quick and healthier pasta dish that you are going to love!
How to Make Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce
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Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add 400 g of mafalda corta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain it and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 2 cups of chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Brown the Ground Beef: Add 700 g of extra lean ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Season the Beef: Mix in 2 teaspoons of allspice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 5 tablespoons of tomato sauce. Stir well and adjust seasoning to your taste; let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
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Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine 2.5 cups of plain full-fat yogurt, 1/2 cup of tahini, 1 crushed clove of garlic, 4 teaspoons of dried mint, and a squeeze of lemon. Use a fork to mix gently, avoiding a blender to keep the desired texture.
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Toast the Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet, add a handful of pine nuts and toast over medium heat until golden, stirring often to prevent burning (approximately 3-5 minutes).
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Assemble the Dish: To serve, layer the pasta with the beef mixture, drizzle generously with the yogurt sauce, and top with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
Optional: Enhance with a drizzle of olive oil before serving for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce
Refrigerator: Store leftover Arabic pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the yogurt sauce separate until serving.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the pasta and meat mixture in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the yogurt sauce, as it may alter the texture.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a skillet on low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge, allowing for quick assembly when you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce.
Expert Tips for Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce
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Prep Ahead: Prepare the ground beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This quickens your weeknight cooking and ensures a delicious meal in no time.
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Texture Matters: Avoid blending the yogurt sauce. Mixing with a fork keeps the sauce creamy and prevents it from becoming too thin, which is essential for your Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce.
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Experiment with Veggies: Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas enhances nutrition and flavor. They’re great options to incorporate into the meat mixture.
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Choose Your Pasta: While mafalda corta is delightful, feel free to switch it up! Whole grain pasta or your favorite variety can add unique textures and flavors.
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Perfectly Toasted Pine Nuts: Watch your pine nuts closely while toasting, as they can burn quickly. Aim for a golden-brown hue for the best crunch and richness.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ground beef mixture and yogurt sauce up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating them in airtight containers. To maintain freshness, cool the beef mixture completely before storing, and give the yogurt sauce a gentle stir before serving to reintroduce the creamy texture. When ready to enjoy your meal, simply cook the pasta according to package instructions, heat the beef mixture in a skillet, and layer with the yogurt sauce. This way, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together in no time, making weeknight meals a breeze!
Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce Variations
Customizing your Arabic pasta can add even more excitement to this already delightful dish!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt and tahini with sunflower seed butter for a creamy, non-dairy sauce.
- Whole Grain Twist: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier, more fibrous base while keeping the flavors intact.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a lively heat that dances on your palate.
- Veggie-Packed: Toss in chopped spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added nutrition and texture. These veggies will soak up the rich flavors beautifully!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro in place of or alongside dried mint for a different aromatic experience.
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the pine nuts or replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy and nutritious alternative.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream into the yogurt sauce for an even richer creaminess that elevates the dish.
- Zesty Surprise: Add a tangy dollop of harissa or your favorite hot sauce on top before serving for a bold flavor adventure.
Feel free to mix and match these variations for a dish that’s uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce?
Creating a memorable meal goes beyond just the main dish; it’s about the entire dining experience.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh blend of greens with a light vinaigrette adds contrast and brightness to the flavors of the pasta.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out natural sweetness and enhances textures, making them a perfect, healthy complement to the creamy dish.
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Hummus Platter: Serve a variety of hummus flavors alongside pita bread for a delightful starter, echoing Middle Eastern culinary traditions.
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Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing salad with a sprinkle of sumac and fresh herbs balances the richness of the yogurt sauce, making every bite zesty.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves: These delightful bites offer a tangy, savory option that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Mint Lemonade: This refreshing beverage brings a touch of brightness and acidity, cleansing the palate alongside the dish’s rich flavors.
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Baklava for Dessert: End the meal on a sweet note with flaky, honey-soaked baklava; its sweetness will beautifully contrast the savory flavors of the pasta.
Elevate your dinner table with these pairings to make your Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce an unforgettable feast!
Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Absolutely! While mafalda corta is the best choice, you can use any pasta that you love. Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even whole grain options work well here and can add delightful textures to your meal.
How should I store leftovers?
To enjoy your leftovers at their best, store your Arabic pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great idea to keep the yogurt sauce separate until you’re ready to serve, as this maintains its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! Portion out the pasta and meat mixture into airtight containers, and it will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. However, I recommend not freezing the yogurt sauce, as it can become grainy when thawed.
Any tips for reheating the pasta?
To reheat, first, thaw the frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight. Then, gently warm it in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep things moist. You can also use a microwave; just remember to cover it to keep the steam in!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious with the tahini, as it’s made from sesame seeds, which can trigger allergies. You can replace tahini with a nut butter if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What if I find my yogurt sauce too thick?
If your yogurt sauce feels too thick, don’t worry! You can thin it out by adding a little water or a splash of lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency. Just mix with a fork to keep that lovely texture intact!
Delicious Arabic Pasta with Easy Yogurt Sauce in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add 400 g of mafalda corta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 2 cups of chopped onions and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add 700 g of extra lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix in 2 teaspoons of allspice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 5 tablespoons of tomato sauce. Stir and simmer for a couple of minutes.
- In a bowl, combine 2.5 cups of plain full-fat yogurt, 1/2 cup of tahini, 1 crushed clove of garlic, 4 teaspoons of dried mint, and a squeeze of lemon. Mix gently.
- Toast a handful of pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, about 3-5 minutes.
- To serve, layer the pasta with the beef mixture, drizzle with yogurt sauce, and top with pine nuts and fresh herbs.