Introduction
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a quick and refreshing dish that combines the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese with the bright, tangy flavors of lemon. The addition of fresh spinach brings a pop of color and a nutritious element, while Parmesan cheese and garlic provide depth of flavor. This dish is perfect for a light and easy weeknight meal, and it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a great option when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb (8 oz/220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, fusilli)
- 1 cup (9 oz/250 grams) whole-milk ricotta
- 8 oz (230 grams) fresh baby spinach, washed
- 1/3 cup (35 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve
- 1 unwaxed lemon, zest and juice
- 3 lemon wedges, to serve (optional)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 garlic clove, grated or pressed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 1/2 lb of pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water in the last minute of cooking, then add the 8 oz of fresh baby spinach to the pot. Stir the spinach to submerge it in the boiling water.
- After 1 minute, drain the pasta and spinach together and return them to the same pot.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce
- While the pasta is cooking, in a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 grated garlic clove, lemon zest, and lemon juice from 1 unwaxed lemon.
- Season the mixture with 1/4 teaspoon salt and a generous pinch of black pepper. Stir until well combined to form a creamy sauce.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the ricotta sauce to the drained pasta and spinach.
- Gradually stir in a portion of the reserved pasta cooking water, using just enough to create a smooth and creamy texture. Continue to stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the ricotta sauce.
- If needed, add more of the reserved cooking water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Step 4: Serve
- Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with extra grated or shaved Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top for added richness.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor, and for those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Cooking Notes:
- Pasta Options: You can use any type of pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, depending on your preference.
- Lemon Flavor: For a more pronounced lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest or juice as desired.
- Ricotta Substitute: For a lighter option, you can substitute the ricotta with part-skim ricotta or Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Grilled Chicken: Serve this lemon ricotta pasta alongside grilled chicken for added protein.
- With a Side Salad: Pair the pasta with a light green salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors.
Tips:
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve the pasta cooking water—it helps loosen the ricotta sauce and gives the dish a smooth, silky texture.
- Make It Creamier: If you prefer a creamier texture, add more ricotta or a splash of cream to the sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: This dish is naturally vegetarian but can easily be made vegan by using dairy-free ricotta and Parmesan substitutes.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 10 minutes
Total Time:
- 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 538 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a light, creamy, and tangy dish that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. The ricotta and Parmesan mixture pairs beautifully with the fresh spinach and lemon, creating a pasta dish that is both refreshing and indulgent. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this pasta makes for the perfect weeknight dinner or an easy lunch. Serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and extra Parmesan for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds