Light & Bright Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta 🍋🧀✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a dish that combines fresh citrus notes with creamy comfort, look no further than our Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta. This light lemon pasta recipe is perfect for weeknights, impresses at dinner parties, and offers a gourmet feel without the fuss. Made with luscious ricotta cheese and zesty lemon, this ricotta pasta recipe delivers a delightful flavor profile that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
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3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Preparation: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Make the Lemon Ricotta Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the lemon zest and red pepper flakes (if using), cook for another 30 seconds. Then, stir in the ricotta cheese and lemon juice. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Combine Pasta with the Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat all the noodles evenly with the lemon ricotta sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the flavors to meld for 1-2 minutes over low heat.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately. For an extra touch of brightness, garnish with additional lemon zest.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as ricotta can sometimes become grainy when thawed.
5. Serving Suggestions for This Delicious Pasta
Pair this light lemon pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Complement it with a glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. For a protein boost, consider topping with grilled chicken or shrimp. For quick meal ideas, explore the zesty citrus shrimp salad for a refreshing side.
6. FAQ: Common Questions About Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute ricotta with dairy-free alternatives like cashew ricotta or tofu blended with lemon juice. The flavor remains light, but the texture may vary slightly.
What other pasta types work well with this recipe?
Rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta are excellent options. Choose what suits your dietary needs or personal preference for best results.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 20 minutes, making it ideal for a quick yet impressive dinner.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Enhance your cooking experience with some handy kitchen tools. The Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker is perfect for preparing fresh lemon drinks to serve alongside your pasta. The CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set ensures your pasta won’t stick, and the KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer makes mixing and prepping ingredients a breeze.
8. Final Tips to Perfect Your Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Use fresh lemon for the best brightness, and don’t skimp on the fresh herbs—they add that final layer of flavor. Pair with your favorite side or protein for a complete meal that’s healthy, flavorful, and satisfying.
9. Conclusion
With its vibrant citrus flavor and creamy texture, this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a wonderful addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire. Its simplicity, combined with fresh ingredients, creates a dish that’s both light and indulgent. Try this quick recipe today and enjoy a taste of Mediterranean sunshine with every bite!
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Light & Bright Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Experience the bright and creamy flavor of Light & Bright Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta, a quick and delicious meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Made with fresh lemon zest, creamy ricotta, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish offers a vibrant, gourmet taste that’s easy to prepare and satisfying.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add lemon zest and red pepper flakes, cook for 30 seconds. Stir in ricotta cheese and lemon juice; whisk until smooth. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with the lemon ricotta sauce. Season with salt and black pepper, and let it meld for 1-2 minutes over low heat.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped basil or parsley, and additional lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing to prevent graininess of ricotta.
- For variation, substitute gluten-free or alternative pasta types like penne or rotini. For a dairy-free version, use cashew ricotta or blended tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg