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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish combining creamy ricotta with fresh lemon and baby spinach.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces dried pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or any other)

Oil and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 unwaxed lemon juice and zest

Ricotta and Greens

  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  • Step 2: Sauté the Garlic - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden.
  • Step 3: Combine Lemon and Ricotta - In a mixing bowl, add the ricotta cheese, the juice and zest of ½ unwaxed lemon, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until well combined.
  • Step 4: Mix in the Spinach - To the skillet with the garlic, add the baby spinach leaves. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until the spinach wilts down.
  • Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce - Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic and spinach. Pour in the ricotta mixture and toss everything together gently. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Step 6: Serve with Parmesan - Once well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with grated parmesan cheese and additional lemon zest if desired.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using homemade ricotta. Make sure to use unwaxed lemons for the zest. You can add red pepper flakes for heat or grilled chicken/shrimp for extra protein.