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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

A creamy, light pasta dish featuring ricotta and fresh lemon zest, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Base
  • 8 oz pasta Any shape you prefer, such as penne or farfalle.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water Helps to bind the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
  • 4 cups spinach leaves Adds vibrant color and nutrients.
  • 1 medium shallot Minced for sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for flavor.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Forms the creamy base of the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest Infuses zesty flavor.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Adds fresh brightness.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for depth.
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt To enhance flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper To taste.
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil For garnish.
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes Optional for a kick.
  • 2 tbsp extra Parmesan cheese For serving.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Additional for serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
  2. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  3. Pour the drained pasta back into the pot.
  4. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the spinach and minced shallot, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
  6. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in ricotta cheese until creamy.
  8. Mix in lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring until well combined.
  9. Add the reserved pasta water and stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  10. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  11. Add the cooked pasta and stir well until coated in the ricotta sauce.
  12. Garnish with freshly chopped basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

This dish can be served warm or chilled as a pasta salad. Perfect for gatherings and meal prep. To enhance flavor, drizzle good quality olive oil before serving.