Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a delightful dish that brings together the creamy richness of ricotta cheese and the bright, zesty flavor of lemon, creating a perfect balance of comfort and freshness. This easy-to-make recipe is an excellent choice for anyone who loves simple yet satisfying meals packed with vibrant flavors. The addition of fresh spinach not only enhances the dish’s color but also adds a nutritional boost, making it both wholesome and delicious. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a hint of garlic further enrich the flavors, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet remains light and refreshing.
This pasta recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need a quick and effortless meal that still feels special. In just 20 minutes, you can have a comforting plate of creamy, lemon-infused pasta that is both nourishing and satisfying. It requires minimal ingredients and effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it a great go-to option for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding your family, or entertaining guests, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.
Beyond its incredible taste and simplicity, Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is also highly versatile. You can customize it in various ways to suit your preferences and dietary needs. If you want to add more protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta make excellent additions. For a heartier version, you can toss in some toasted pine nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted vegetables. If you prefer a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes will add just the right amount of heat. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish uniquely your own each time you prepare it.
One of the standout elements of this dish is its creamy texture, which is achieved without the need for heavy cream. The ricotta cheese, when combined with a splash of pasta water and lemon juice, creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Unlike traditional cream-based pasta sauces, this one remains light and airy, making it a fantastic option for those who want a creamy pasta dish without feeling weighed down. The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also enhances the ricotta’s natural creaminess, giving the dish a refreshing and slightly tangy finish.
The choice of pasta also plays a crucial role in the overall experience of this dish. While traditional spaghetti or fettuccine work wonderfully, short pasta varieties such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle are excellent options as well. These pasta shapes hold onto the creamy sauce exceptionally well, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options can easily be substituted without compromising the taste or texture.
A key technique in making this dish truly exceptional is reserving some of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water helps to emulsify the ricotta and lemon mixture, creating a smooth and cohesive sauce that clings to the pasta. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in achieving the perfect consistency. Additionally, using high-quality ricotta cheese is essential. Fresh, whole-milk ricotta provides the best texture and flavor, giving the dish its signature creamy, velvety finish.
Spinach, a key ingredient in this recipe, adds a nutritional boost while complementing the creamy and tangy flavors beautifully. It wilts quickly when mixed with the warm pasta, seamlessly blending into the dish without requiring extra cooking time. If you’re looking to switch things up, other leafy greens such as arugula, kale, or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives. Each brings a slightly different flavor profile, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Another great aspect of this dish is its ability to be enjoyed both hot and cold. While it is traditionally served warm, it also makes for an excellent pasta salad when chilled. This makes it a great option for meal prepping, as leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed the next day without reheating. Simply toss the cold pasta with a little extra lemon juice or olive oil to refresh the flavors, and you have a delicious and convenient meal ready to go.
Pairing this dish with the right accompaniments can elevate the dining experience even further. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side, while a slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce. If you’re serving this as part of a larger meal, it pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, roasted chicken, or a simple vegetable medley. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the lemony and creamy flavors of the pasta, making for a well-rounded and enjoyable meal.
For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for creativity. Adding fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can bring an extra layer of aroma and taste. A sprinkle of toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, provides a delightful crunch, while a drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporating a touch of honey or balsamic glaze can add a subtle sweetness that balances the tangy and savory elements beautifully.
Overall, Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a dish that embodies simplicity, elegance, and versatility. It’s proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques to create something truly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit. With its bright flavors, creamy texture, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a meal that brings comfort and joy to the table every time. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and savor every bite of this delightful and refreshing pasta creation!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb (8 oz/220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, fusilli)
- 1 cup (9 oz/250 grams) whole-milk ricotta
- 8 oz (230 grams) fresh baby spinach, washed
- 1/3 cup (35 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve
- 1 unwaxed lemon, zest and juice
- 3 lemon wedges, to serve (optional)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 garlic clove, grated or pressed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 1/2 lb of pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water in the last minute of cooking, then add the 8 oz of fresh baby spinach to the pot. Stir the spinach to submerge it in the boiling water.
- After 1 minute, drain the pasta and spinach together and return them to the same pot.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce
- While the pasta is cooking, in a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 grated garlic clove, lemon zest, and lemon juice from 1 unwaxed lemon.
- Season the mixture with 1/4 teaspoon salt and a generous pinch of black pepper. Stir until well combined to form a creamy sauce.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the ricotta sauce to the drained pasta and spinach.
- Gradually stir in a portion of the reserved pasta cooking water, using just enough to create a smooth and creamy texture. Continue to stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the ricotta sauce.
- If needed, add more of the reserved cooking water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Step 4: Serve
- Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with extra grated or shaved Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top for added richness.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor, and for those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Cooking Notes:
- Pasta Options: You can use any type of pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, depending on your preference.
- Lemon Flavor: For a more pronounced lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest or juice as desired.
- Ricotta Substitute: For a lighter option, you can substitute the ricotta with part-skim ricotta or Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Grilled Chicken: Serve this lemon ricotta pasta alongside grilled chicken for added protein.
- With a Side Salad: Pair the pasta with a light green salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors.
Tips:
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve the pasta cooking water—it helps loosen the ricotta sauce and gives the dish a smooth, silky texture.
- Make It Creamier: If you prefer a creamier texture, add more ricotta or a splash of cream to the sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: This dish is naturally vegetarian but can easily be made vegan by using dairy-free ricotta and Parmesan substitutes.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 10 minutes
Total Time:
- 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 538 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a light, creamy, and tangy dish that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. The ricotta and Parmesan mixture pairs beautifully with the fresh spinach and lemon, creating a pasta dish that is both refreshing and indulgent. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this pasta makes for the perfect weeknight dinner or an easy lunch. Serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and extra Parmesan for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds