Lemon Ricotta & Spinach Pasta
A creamy and refreshing vegetarian pasta dish made with lemon, ricotta cheese, and spinach for a light yet satisfying meal.
- Author: sarra
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 12 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
- Add the drained pasta to the pan along with reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If using, sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest or Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or gluten-free version.
- Fresh basil or parsley can add extra flavor.
- Great served warm or at room temperature as a pasta salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: lemon ricotta pasta, spinach pasta, vegetarian pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner