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Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 10 reviews

A creamy and vibrant Lemon Ricotta Pasta with fresh spinach, bright lemon zest, and a touch of garlic, perfectly coated in a smooth ricotta sauce with a hint of spice. This easy-to-make pasta dish combines wholesome ingredients for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
  • 4 cups fresh spinach

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
  3. Prepare the Ricotta Sauce: Lower heat to low and stir in ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly to combine the flavors.
  4. Adjust Sauce Consistency: Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water while stirring until the sauce turns smooth and creamy.
  5. Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat evenly with the lemon ricotta sauce.
  6. Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and blends into the pasta.
  7. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, and garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley. Serve warm for best flavor.

Notes

  • Using whole-milk ricotta gives the sauce a rich and creamy texture.
  • Reserve some pasta water to help create a smooth sauce that coats the pasta well.
  • Adjust salt and black pepper according to taste preference.
  • For added spice, red pepper flakes can be included or omitted.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add brightness and a fresh aroma to the dish.
  • Can be served as a main course or a hearty side dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon ricotta pasta, spinach pasta, creamy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, easy Italian pasta

Find it online: https://maicook.com/lemon-ricotta-pasta-with-spinach-recipe/