Elevate your pasta nights with this Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta—a harmonious blend of creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and zesty lemon. This dish offers a refreshing twist on traditional pasta, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Not only is this recipe delightfully delicious, but it’s also incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner gatherings. Serve it up and watch as it becomes a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of the pasta cooking water before draining. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined. - Sauté the Spinach:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. - Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the spinach. Pour the ricotta mixture over the pasta and toss to combine. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. - Serve:
Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings