Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta is a fresh, light, and creamy dish that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the rich, smooth texture of ricotta. The spinach adds a pop of color and a healthy touch, while the pasta brings everything together in a comforting meal. This recipe is simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
fresh spinach
ricotta cheese
lemon zest
lemon juice
garlic cloves
olive oil
salt
black pepper
Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Toss well to combine. If the pasta feels dry, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Finish the Sauce: Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy lemon ricotta sauce.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon can be added for extra protein.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor and texture.
• Herb Twist: Try adding fresh thyme or oregano to enhance the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used in place of fresh spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute it with cream cheese or mascarpone for a slightly different texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the ricotta sauce and spinach mixture ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Then, simply cook the pasta and combine everything when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any type of pasta, such as penne, farfalle, or linguine, will work well with this sauce.

Conclusion

Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta is a deliciously creamy and refreshing dish that brings together the perfect balance of bright lemon and smooth ricotta. With its quick preparation and fresh ingredients, it’s an ideal meal for any occasion. Light yet satisfying, this pasta will surely become a favorite in your dinner rotation!

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