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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Bright and Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta in Just 20 Minutes

Enjoy a quick and creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta that captures the essence of the Mediterranean.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Spaghetti Choose long shapes for better sauce adherence
  • 1 tbsp Salt Essential for seasoning the pasta water
For the Sauce
  • 15 oz Whole Milk Ricotta Use whole for a smooth texture
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Organic lemons yield the best flavor
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Contributes necessary acidity
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use a Microplane for smooth incorporation
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil Enhances creaminess and flavor
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper For seasoning
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) Substitue with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste
Optional Add-Ins
  • 2 cups Spinach Toss just before serving for freshness
  • 8 oz Protein (optional) Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or flaked salmon

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • measuring cup

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Ricotta Pasta
  1. Boil the pasta water by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions.
  2. Prepare the ricotta sauce by combining ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated garlic, and olive oil in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
  4. Blend the sauce with the reserved pasta water over low heat until silky.
  5. Toss the pasta with the sauce until evenly coated and heated through.
  6. If using, toss in spinach during the last minute of cooking for freshness.
  7. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve garnished with extra cheese, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 18gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This dish is easy to customize with various add-ins and perfect for make-ahead options.

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