Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that brings the bright flavors of Italy to your kitchen, then this Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach is just what you need! This dish is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also feels special enough for family gatherings or a cozy dinner for one. The creamy ricotta paired with zesty lemon and fresh spinach creates a beautiful balance that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight when time is short or you’re planning a lovely dinner with friends, this recipe shines through with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Trust me, once you try this Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach, it will become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 15 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you’re short on time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using wholesome ingredients like ricotta and spinach means you’re nourishing your body while enjoying delicious flavors.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering.
• Creamy Comfort: The combination of creamy ricotta and bright lemon makes every bite feel indulgent yet refreshing.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the simple yet vibrant taste of this pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1/2 lb (8oz/220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, fusilli…)
• 1 cup (9oz/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 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 garlic clove, grated or pressed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to mix things up while keeping the essence of Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach:

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for an added boost of protein that makes it even heartier.
• Go Green: Include other greens like arugula or kale for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the ricotta with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream and skip the Parmesan.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick if you enjoy heat.

How to Make Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta provides the ideal base for our rich sauce. While the pasta cooks, we can prepare our creamy ricotta mixture!

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. Tasting at this stage ensures that all those vibrant flavors come together beautifully.

Step 3: Add Spinach to the Pasta

In the last minute of cooking time for your pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water then add the fresh spinach into the pot. Stir well and push down on the leaves so they can wilt nicely in that hot water. This step adds both flavor and nutrients!

Step 4: Combine Everything

After one minute, drain the pasta and spinach together before returning them to the same pot. Add in your creamy ricotta sauce along with part of the reserved cooking water. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. If it seems too thick, adding more cooking water will help achieve that luscious creamy texture we love.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately! Garnish with extra grated or shaved Parmesan cheese, drizzle some olive oil on top, and add lemon wedges if desired. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Ready to whip up a delicious bowl of lemon ricotta pasta? Here are some handy tips to make your cooking experience even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality ricotta truly elevate the flavor of this dish, making it taste like it came straight from a cozy Italian kitchen.
• Adjust the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to tweak the salt and pepper to your liking. Taste as you go—this helps you achieve the perfect balance!
• Reserve cooking water: Always save some pasta cooking water! It’s starchy and helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta.
• Don’t overcook the spinach: Adding spinach in the last minute of cooking keeps it vibrant and full of nutrients. You want it tender but still bright green!
• Experiment with cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in other cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust your seasoning accordingly!

How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Serving your lemon ricotta pasta is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Let’s make it shine on your dinner table!

Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds richness and a delightful touch.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes brings a lovely kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped basil or parsley not only adds color but also freshens up the dish with an aromatic flair.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
• Simple arugula salad: Tossed with olive oil and lemon juice, an arugula salad provides a peppery contrast that balances out the creaminess of the pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers drizzled with olive oil and roasted until caramelized add both nutrition and flavor to your meal.
• Caprese skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella (or dairy-free alternative), and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing bite alongside your pasta.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy creating this light, zesty dish, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This lemon ricotta pasta with spinach is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• When storing, keep some extra reserved cooking water on hand to help rehydrate the pasta when reheating.

Freezing

• This dish is best made fresh, but if you want to freeze it:
• Freeze the pasta and ricotta sauce separately if possible.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them with the date.
• Eat within 2 months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Warm gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding reserved cooking water as needed to achieve the desired creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent the ricotta from becoming grainy.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make lemon ricotta pasta & spinach without cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to maintain that cheesy flavor while keeping it plant-based.

What can I serve with lemon ricotta pasta & spinach?

This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or some garlic bread. You might also enjoy it alongside grilled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad.

How do I enhance the flavor of lemon ricotta pasta & spinach?

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!

Can I use frozen spinach in lemon ricotta pasta & spinach?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture from frozen spinach before adding it to your dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope this lemon ricotta pasta with spinach becomes a favorite in your meal rotation! It’s not only easy to make but also bursting with vibrant flavors that brighten any weeknight dinner. Enjoy making this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your variations or what you loved most about it! Happy cooking!