Imagine a creamy, tangy, and irresistibly comforting pasta dish that comes together in the blink of an eye—and that’s exactly what Macarona bi Laban is. This isn’t just your average pasta recipe. This is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—simple, soothing, and oh-so-satisfying.
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Macarona bi Laban is a beloved Middle Eastern comfort food, made with tender pasta coated in a rich, garlicky yogurt sauce, then topped with a sizzling drizzle of butter and toasted pine nuts. It’s light but filling, tangy yet mellow, and totally customizable. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
So grab your favorite pot, call dibs on the first bite, and let’s get into why this dreamy dish deserves a spot on your table.
Why You’ll Love Yogurt Pasta (Macarona bi Laban)
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Yogurt Pasta (Macarona bi Laban)
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Pasta: Your favorite short pasta like elbow macaroni or penne is perfect here. It acts as the canvas for that creamy yogurt magic.
Greek Yogurt: The base of the sauce—thick, tangy, and luscious. It gives the dish its signature creaminess and slight zing.
Garlic: Crushed fresh garlic infuses the yogurt sauce with bold, aromatic flavor. It’s the kind of bite that keeps you coming back for more.
Salt: A simple seasoning that balances out the tartness of the yogurt.
Butter: Melted until golden and nutty, it adds richness and a silky finish.
Pine Nuts: Toasted in the butter, they bring a beautiful crunch and a toasty, almost sweet flavor that takes the dish over the top.
Dried Mint (optional): A traditional finishing touch for a fresh, herbal contrast that pairs beautifully with the tangy yogurt.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside. Don’t rinse it—you want the pasta a little starchy so it holds onto that creamy sauce.
Mix the Yogurt Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, crushed garlic, and salt until smooth and creamy. If the yogurt is very thick, you can thin it with a splash of warm water to help it coat the pasta.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently fold the hot pasta into the yogurt mixture while it’s still warm. The heat will help loosen the sauce and bring everything together in creamy harmony.
Toast the Pine Nuts: In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and stir until golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them—they can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!
Add Final Touches: Pour the butter and pine nuts over the pasta. If using, sprinkle a bit of dried mint on top for a traditional finish.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate it up while it’s still warm. Trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 390
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
How to Serve Yogurt Pasta (Macarona bi Laban)
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular pasta for gluten-free alternatives or use dairy-free yogurt.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
A1: Absolutely! Just strain it a bit to reduce the water content or use a thicker brand for best results.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then mix and heat together when ready to serve.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently and stir to restore creaminess.
Q4: Can I freeze Yogurt Pasta?
A4: It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the yogurt sauce can separate when frozen. But if you do freeze it, thaw and stir thoroughly before reheating.
Q5: What’s the best pasta type to use?
A5: Short pasta like macaroni, penne, or shells works best for holding onto that luscious sauce.
Q6: Can I skip the garlic?
A6: You can, especially if you’re not a garlic lover. The flavor will be milder but still tasty.
Q7: Are pine nuts necessary?
A7: Not at all. You can leave them out or swap with slivered almonds or crushed walnuts for a similar crunch.
Q8: Can I make this vegan?
A8: Yes! Use plant-based yogurt and vegan butter. The flavor will still be wonderfully creamy and tangy.
Q9: What if my yogurt curdles?
A9: Be sure not to add cold yogurt to very hot pasta. Let the pasta cool slightly or use room temperature yogurt to avoid curdling.
Q10: Can I add protein to make it more filling?
A10: Definitely! Grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even chickpeas make great additions.
Conclusion
Yogurt Pasta (Macarona bi Laban) is one of those magical recipes that combines ease, flavor, and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a weekday night or want to impress with a simple yet flavorful dish, this one delivers every single time. So go ahead—give it a try, get creative with the toppings, and let your kitchen fill with the delicious aroma of creamy, garlicky goodness. You’ve got this!
Print
Yogurt Pasta (Macarona bi Laban)
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
Yogurt Pasta (Macarona bi Laban) is a creamy Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring tender pasta tossed in a garlicky Balkan-style yogurt sauce, topped with spiced ground beef, buttery pine nuts, and fresh parsley. A comforting fusion that blends Levantine and Turkish flavors, perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal. #HomemadeRecipes
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups plain Balkan yogurt
- 4–6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried mint
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup pasta water
- 3 cups pasta (uncooked)
- 1 tbsp ghee (if needed)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Middle Eastern 7 spice
- 1 tsp curry powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until slightly past al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining. Toss pasta in 1-2 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, minced garlic, dried mint, dried parsley, salt, and cooled pasta water.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the yogurt sauce and set aside.
- Heat a large pan on medium-high. Add 1 tbsp ghee if using lean beef. Add ground beef and season with 7 spice, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
- Once beef is browned, add finely chopped onion and cook for another 8–10 minutes until slightly charred and onions are softened.
- In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium. Add pine nuts and toast until golden. Remove from heat and stir in red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and butter one tbsp at a time, whisking to melt.
- Layer the spiced beef over the yogurt pasta, drizzle with pine nut butter, and garnish with fresh parsley. Optionally, sprinkle with more smoked paprika.
Notes
- Use full-fat Balkan-style yogurt for a creamier texture.
- Adjust spice level by omitting or increasing red pepper flakes.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the beef or replace with sautéed mushrooms.
- Yogurt sauce is best mixed with pasta when pasta is slightly cooled to prevent curdling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg