Print

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
Print Recipe

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a fresh, creamy, and zesty dish combining smooth ricotta cheese, bright lemon juice and zest, and vibrant sautéed spinach. This quick and easy recipe offers a perfect balance of tangy and rich flavors with a nutritious boost, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or your favorite variety)

Cheese and Dairy

  • 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Produce

  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)

Pantry & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your chosen pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the type. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted and tender.
  3. Mix Ricotta and Lemon: In a bowl, combine the fresh ricotta cheese with lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir until smooth and creamy to form the base of the sauce.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with sautéed spinach and garlic. Pour in the ricotta-lemon mixture and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss gently over low heat until the sauce coats the pasta evenly and the spinach is well distributed.
  5. Season and Serve: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese, toss once more, and serve warm immediately.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce and adjust consistency.
  • Use fresh lemons and spinach for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook spinach; wilt just until tender and vibrant green.
  • Adjust creaminess by gradually adding olive oil or reserved pasta water as needed.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon ricotta pasta, spinach pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta, lemon pasta, ricotta recipe, healthy pasta

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/lemon-ricotta-pasta-with-spinach/