Lemon Ricotta & Spinach Pasta

This Lemon Ricotta & Spinach Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish that effortlessly combines creamy ricotta cheese, zesty lemon, and fresh spinach into a flavorful, wholesome meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal preparation while delivering restaurant-quality taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish offers a delightful balance of creamy and tangy flavors, thanks to the combination of ricotta cheese and fresh lemon juice. The spinach adds a nutritious touch, while the lemon zest brightens up the overall flavor profile. It’s quick to prepare, vegetarian-friendly, and versatile enough to serve as either a main dish or a side.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)

• Fresh spinach

• Ricotta cheese

• Lemon juice

• Lemon zest

• Garlic (minced)

• Olive oil

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.

5. Add the cooked pasta and sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until a creamy consistency is achieved.

6. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

7. Serve warm with extra lemon zest or Parmesan on top if preferred.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

• Use different greens: Kale or arugula can be used in place of spinach.

• Go gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta without sacrificing flavor.

• Add fresh herbs: Basil or parsley adds extra freshness and complexity.

• Spice it up: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or milk to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for too long as it may dry out the sauce.

FAQs

How can I make this pasta dish more filling?

You can add grilled chicken, white beans, or sautéed mushrooms to make it more substantial.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily, making it ideal for meal prep.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess water in the sauce.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone, though it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne or fusilli, or long strands like spaghetti or fettuccine all work well with this sauce.

How do I make it more lemony?

Add more lemon zest or a touch of lemon extract if you desire a more intense citrus flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild in flavor, but you may want to omit the red pepper flakes for younger palates.

Can I serve it cold as a pasta salad?

This dish is best served warm, but it can be enjoyed cold if stored properly and dressed with a bit more lemon juice or olive oil.

How can I make this vegan?

Substitute ricotta with a dairy-free alternative and omit Parmesan or use a vegan version.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s not ideal for freezing due to the dairy-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing and reheating.

Conclusion

Lemon Ricotta & Spinach Pasta is a refreshing, creamy, and satisfying meal perfect for any season. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining. Whether enjoyed on its own or with added protein, this dish is sure to become a regular on your meal rotation

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