Authentic Greek Mizithra Cheese Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of Mizithra cheese
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 pound of spaghetti
  • 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish, finely chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil and minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat in the garlic butter mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
  4. Remove the skillet from heat and add the Mizithra cheese. Toss well until the cheese is evenly distributed.
  5. Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley before serving.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - for boiling the spaghetti
  • Skillet - for cooking the garlic butter sauce and tossing the pasta
  • Colander - for draining the cooked spaghetti
  • Cheese grater - for grating the Mizithra cheese
  • Garlic press - for mincing the garlic cloves
  • Spatula - for tossing and stirring the pasta
  • Pasta server - for serving the cooked spaghetti
  • Chopping board - for chopping the fresh parsley
  • Knife - for mincing the garlic and chopping the parsley

Recipe variations

  • Add roasted cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
  • Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy and savory twist.
  • Include cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky and salty taste.
  • Substitute the spaghetti with your favorite pasta shape, like penne or fettuccine.
  • Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed option.
  • Drizzle some balsamic glaze or truffle oil for an extra touch of sophistication.
  • Toss in some fresh herbs like basil or oregano for added freshness.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our recipe for a simple and delicious Mizithra Pasta! This dish is a classic Greek recipe that features Mizithra, a traditional dry Greek cheese made from sheep or goat's milk. The cheese is grated over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti, tossed in a garlic-infused butter and olive oil blend. The result is a rich, savory, and slightly creamy pasta dish that's both comforting and satisfying. This recipe is incredibly easy to make and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The flavor of the Mizithra cheese is the star of this dish, complemented by the fragrant garlic and rich butter. By the end of this process, you will have a delicious pasta meal that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. If you are a lover of pasta dishes with a twist, then this recipe is definitely for you. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute Mizithra cheese with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano if you prefer.
  2. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted? Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the overall saltiness of the dish.
  3. Can I add other ingredients to the pasta? Certainly! You can customize the recipe by adding sautéed vegetables, cooked bacon, or grilled chicken to the pasta.
  4. How long can I store the leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
  5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free spaghetti or other gluten-free pasta alternatives.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - for boiling the spaghetti
  • Skillet - for cooking the garlic butter sauce and tossing the pasta
  • Colander - for draining the cooked spaghetti
  • Grater - for grating the Mizithra cheese
  • Kitchen tongs - for tossing and serving the pasta
  • Garlic press - for mincing the garlic
  • Knife - for chopping the fresh parsley
  • Measuring cup - for measuring the pasta water

Origin stories

Mizithra, an intriguingly tangy and salty cheese hailing from the sun-kissed shores of Greece, holds a storied spot in Greek culinary tradition. It’s said to be among the oldest recorded cheeses, with roots tracing back to the time of Homer. Yes, that's right! This cheese, traditionally made from the milk of sheep or goats, has been gracing Greek tables since ancient times, even getting a mention in the epic Odyssey. In the tale, the hero Odysseus uses Mizithra cheese as part of a cunning plan to blind the cyclops Polyphemus and make a grand escape. Such a rich history adds a dash of intrigue to every bite of Mizithra, making it much more than just a simple cheese.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.