Name: Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: – 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine); – 1 cup ricotta cheese; – 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; – 1 lemon (zested and juiced); – 2 cloves garlic, minced; – 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; – 2 tbsp olive oil; – 1/2 tsp salt; – 1/4 tsp black pepper; – 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); – 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s light, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavors, Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta is your new best friend. It’s the perfect blend of zesty lemon, creamy ricotta, and tender spinach, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish feels fancy but comes together in no time—ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with friends. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be making it on repeat!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re making a fresh and vibrant dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something creamy yet light, this dish is a winner.

Versatile: Perfect as a main course or a side dish. You can even add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for extra heartiness.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients that pack a ton of flavor without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle.

Customizable: Adjust the lemon zest, add red pepper flakes for heat, or throw in some cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with pasta lovers and anyone who appreciates fresh, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

Here’s what makes this pasta dish so irresistible—it’s simple yet incredibly flavorful. Let’s break it down:

Pasta: The base of the dish! Choose your favorite type—spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work beautifully.

Ricotta Cheese: The creamy, dreamy component that makes this pasta rich without being too heavy.

Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. It wilts beautifully into the warm pasta.

Lemon Zest and Juice: The secret to that bright, refreshing flavor that keeps this dish light and irresistible.

Garlic: A touch of garlic brings warmth and depth to balance the citrusy notes.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Before draining, reserve about a cup of pasta water—it’s key for making the sauce silky.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large pan over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic in a drizzle of olive oil until fragrant. This step releases all that amazing garlicky aroma into the dish.

Add the Spinach

Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. This should take just a minute or two. If using baby spinach, it will soften quickly!

Mix the Ricotta and Lemon

In a small bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up for a creamy, pourable consistency.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the spinach and garlic. Pour in the ricotta-lemon mixture and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit more pasta water until it’s silky and coats the pasta beautifully.

Finishing Touches

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate up your pasta while it’s warm and creamy. Top with extra lemon zest, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 380

(Note: These values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

With Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Add a protein boost to make it a more filling meal.
Garlic Bread: Because pasta and garlic bread are a match made in heaven.
Side Salad: A simple arugula or Caesar salad complements the freshness of the dish.
Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle on top for a nutty crunch that elevates the texture.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente is key for the perfect bite.
Use fresh lemon. Bottled juice won’t give the same bright, fresh flavor.
Make it dairy-free. Swap ricotta for blended cashews or a plant-based alternative.
Store leftovers properly. This pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add a splash of water when reheating to bring back the creamy texture.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Any pasta works in this recipe—just adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
This pasta is best fresh, but you can store leftovers and reheat with a bit of extra water.

3. What if I don’t have ricotta?
You can substitute with cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even a bit of Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

4. Can I add other veggies?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers would be delicious.

5. How do I keep the ricotta from being too thick?
Adding reserved pasta water gradually helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.

6. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work. Just adjust the amount to taste.

7. How do I make this recipe more protein-packed?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

8. Can I make this spicy?
Yes! Red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper will add a nice heat.

9. Can I serve this cold?
While it’s best warm, this pasta can be enjoyed chilled as a refreshing pasta salad.

10. What cheese pairs well with this?
Parmesan or pecorino adds a salty, umami kick to complement the ricotta.

Conclusion

Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and fresh. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that’s easy to whip up in no time. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or impressing guests, this pasta will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try, and let the bright, lemony goodness win you over!

Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

Why You’ll Love Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

Ingredients

Ingredients in Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta