Description
This creamy and refreshing Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with smooth ricotta cheese and nutrient-packed fresh spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this pasta recipe balances tangy, creamy, and savory flavors in a single bowl without heavy sauces or complicated steps.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Greens and Additional
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes depending on pasta type. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, finely grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or stir together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Wilt the Spinach: Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Add the fresh spinach and stir the pasta and spinach together for a minute or so until the spinach is just wilted.
- Toss with Ricotta and Pasta Water: Transfer the hot pasta and wilted spinach into the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil for added brightness and richness.
Notes
- Be sure to reserve pasta water before draining to help emulsify the sauce and achieve a creamy texture.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and to wilt nicely without added cooking time.
- The garlic should be finely grated or minced to integrate smoothly into the sauce without overpowering.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute part or all of the ricotta with part-skim or low-fat ricotta cheese.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as the sauce may thicken once cooled.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: lemon ricotta pasta, spinach pasta, creamy lemon pasta, easy vegetarian pasta, quick dinner recipe, Italian pasta dish
