Description

Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a refreshing dish that combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of comfort and freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

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Instructions

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, then drain the pasta.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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.
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. If using, add halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

For added nutrition and flavor, consider tossing in sautéed vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or zucchini. To make the dish heartier, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, dill, or arugula for a unique twist.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 431
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 491mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 81g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 68mg