A Light, Creamy, and Flavorful Dish
Looking for a quick yet elegant pasta dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors? This Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, zesty, and wholesome. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or a sophisticated addition to your dinner table. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright and Refreshing: The lemon zest and juice add a vibrant, citrusy kick.
Creamy and Comforting: Ricotta cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce without being heavy.
Nutritious and Satisfying: Fresh spinach adds color, texture, and essential nutrients.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a hassle-free meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
12 oz pasta (fusilli, penne, or your favorite shape)
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
½ cup olive oil
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
4 cups fresh spinach leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water to help create the sauce later.
2. Make the Ricotta Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, olive oil, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, immediately toss it into the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Add the Spinach
Gently fold in the fresh spinach while the pasta is still warm. The heat will naturally wilt the spinach, making it tender and flavorful.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Plate the pasta and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top. Garnish with more lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil for added freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Use High-Quality Ricotta: Fresh ricotta will give the best creamy texture and rich flavor.
Choose the Right Pasta: Short, ridged pasta like fusilli or penne holds onto the sauce better.
Adjust the Citrus Flavor: If you love a more intense lemon taste, add extra zest or a splash more juice.
Customize It: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies for a heartier meal.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create an incredibly delicious meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it out tonight and savor the perfect blend of creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and fresh spinach!
