When it comes to pasta dishes that are both satisfying and refreshing, Lemon Ricotta Pasta stands out as a delightful choice. This creamy, citrus-infused dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons, creating a pasta experience that is light yet indulgent. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked pasta, enveloped in a smooth and creamy sauce, with hints of lemon zest and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan. This Lemon Ricotta Pasta is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its vibrant colors and inviting aroma. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that will elevate your pasta game!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and ricotta creates a refreshing taste that feels light and invigorating.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fancy date night, this dish fits the bill.
Ingredients List
To create your delicious Lemon Ricotta Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and half of the grated Parmesan. Mix well until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Pour the ricotta mixture over the pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season: Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Garnish: Serve warm, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy, citrusy pasta!
Variations & Substitutions
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to mix in cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This Lemon Ricotta Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ricotta mixture ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.
What other pasta dishes can I try?
If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy our Lemon Chicken Pasta or Pasta Primavera for more delicious options!
Conclusion
Experience the delightful flavors of Lemon Ricotta Pasta—a creamy, citrusy, and refreshingly light dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its quick preparation and customizable options, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.
We’d love to hear how your Lemon Ricotta Pasta turns out! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know if you tried any variations. For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit https://eldralys.com/ and keep exploring the joys of cooking! Enjoy every creamy, zesty bite!
Print
Lemon Ricotta Pasta: A Creamy and Citrus-Packed Weeknight Favorite
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy, citrus-infused Lemon Ricotta Pasta combines the richness of ricotta cheese with bright lemon zest for a light yet indulgent dish, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, and half the Parmesan until smooth.
- Add pasta to the skillet. Pour ricotta mixture over and toss. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Serve warm, topped with remaining Parmesan and optional herbs.
Notes
Add sautéed vegetables like asparagus or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Great with grilled chicken or shrimp. Use gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Leave a Reply