If you’re searching for a dish that comes together in a flash yet feels like a special treat, the Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe is your new best friend. This pasta dazzles with the creamy tang of ricotta and bright, sunny notes from fresh lemon zest and juice, all tossed with vibrant green spinach and al dente pasta. It’s a wonderfully balanced meal that’s light, refreshing, and comforting all at once, perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend feast. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on the Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe means gathering simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy ricotta to the zesty lemon and fresh spinach, every element counts toward making this dish a memorable one.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose spaghetti or penne for the perfect base to hold the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Provides a luscious creaminess that forms the heart of this dish.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Adds bright citrus notes to uplift the creamy ricotta perfectly.
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves: Brings vibrant color and a mild, earthy flavor that complements the lemon.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing garlic and spinach, it imparts richness and smoothness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant, savory punch that balances the freshness of lemon and spinach.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and makes the dish sing.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: Adds a salty, nutty finish that takes every bite over the top.
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (optional): For garnish to add a fragrant herbaceous touch and a pop of color.
How to Make Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite. Don’t forget to save about half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining your pasta — this starchy water will help loosen your sauce later and bind everything together beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare Ricotta Mixture
While the pasta cooks, grab a large bowl and combine the ricotta cheese with the lemon zest and lemon juice. This mixture is the magic that gives your pasta a bright, creamy twist. Stir it well so that the ricotta fully absorbs the citrus flavor, turning it into a luscious, tangy sauce base.
Step 3: Sauté Spinach and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until you start to smell that irresistible garlic aroma. Then add the fresh spinach leaves, tossing them gently and cooking just until they wilt, preserving their vibrant color and fresh flavor.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Next, add the drained pasta straight into the skillet with your sautéed spinach and garlic. Toss everything together so the garlic-infused oil coats the pasta. Then, add the ricotta and lemon mixture to the skillet. Toss again until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If it feels thick, add a bit of your reserved pasta water slowly to loosen the sauce and create a silky finish.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as you like. Serve immediately with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a scattering of fresh basil leaves if you’d like that extra fragrant, herbaceous note. This final touch makes the dish feel cozy and complete.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh basil and a bit of Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor but also makes your dish visually stunning. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a delightful twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread. A light tomato bruschetta or roasted vegetables can round out your meal with complementary textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, serve this Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe in shallow bowls, topped with basil chiffonade and Parmesan curls. You can also turn it into a pasta salad by letting it cool and tossing with extra olive oil and lemon zest for a refreshing meal on warmer days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely, but the pasta may absorb some sauce, so be ready to loosen it with a splash of water or olive oil when reheating.
Freezing
Since ricotta doesn’t always freeze well due to its texture, freezing this pasta is not recommended. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making to keep the creamy texture perfect.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water or broth to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese if I don’t have ricotta?
Ricotta is key to the creamy base of this dish, but you can substitute with cream cheese or mascarpone for a similar texture. Just keep in mind these options will alter the flavor slightly, making it richer or tangier.
Is fresh lemon juice really necessary?
Yes, fresh lemon juice provides a brightness that bottles just can’t match. It balances the richness of the ricotta and brings the dish to life in a way that pre-made lemon juice can’t replicate.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
While spaghetti and penne are recommended, feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Short pastas like fusilli or farfalle hold the ricotta sauce well, and the choice really depends on your personal preference.
Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crisped pancetta would pair beautifully with this pasta, adding substance without overpowering the delicate lemon and ricotta flavors.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version of the Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe, use a plant-based ricotta alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute. Use nutritional yeast for that cheesy undertone while keeping it flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting and joyful about a bowl of pasta that feels both fresh and indulgent, and the Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe delivers exactly that. It’s simple enough to whip up on any night but impressive enough to share with guests. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how it quickly becomes a go-to classic in your home.
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Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a quick and creamy pasta dish with bright lemon flavors, fresh spinach, and a luscious ricotta sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it combines simple ingredients for a delicious and comforting meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or penne)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (optional), for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining to help loosen the sauce later.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Then add the fresh spinach leaves and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted.
- Combine Pasta and Spinach: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the sautéed spinach and garlic. Gently toss everything together to combine.
- Add Ricotta Mixture: Add the prepared ricotta mixture to the skillet. Toss again until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy ricotta sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Season and Serve: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and optional fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Use fresh lemon for the best bright flavor.
- You can substitute baby spinach if regular spinach is unavailable.
- Parmesan cheese can be omitted or replaced with a vegan alternative for dietary preferences.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
