Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight

Have you ever craved a pasta dish that feels indulgent yet light and refreshing? Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is exactly that—a simple, wholesome recipe bursting with bright, zesty flavors and a creamy texture that will satisfy your taste buds without weighing you down.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick and easy but still impressive enough to serve to guests. The combination of ricotta cheese, fresh lemon, and vibrant spinach creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Ready to whip up this delicious dish? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Here’s why this dish will soon become a staple in your meal rotation:

• Bright and Refreshing: The lemon zest and juice add a tangy brightness that cuts through the creamy ricotta sauce.
• Healthy and Nutritious: With fresh spinach, whole-milk ricotta, and high-quality pasta, it’s a wholesome meal packed with nutrients.
• Quick and Easy: You can have this entire meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Switch up the pasta type, add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or toss in extra vegetables to make it your own.
• Elegant Yet Simple: This dish looks and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant, but it’s incredibly easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this vibrant pasta dish to life:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, etc.)	½ lb (8 oz / 220 grams)	Forms the hearty base of the dish.
Whole-milk ricotta	1 cup (9 oz / 250 grams)	Creates the creamy, velvety sauce.
Fresh baby spinach (rinsed)	8 oz (230 grams)	Adds freshness, nutrients, and vibrant color.
Parmesan cheese (grated)	⅓ cup (35 grams)	Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the sauce.
Lemon (unwaxed, zest and juice)	1	Brings brightness and zest to the dish.
Lemon wedges (optional)	3	Provides an extra burst of citrus for serving.
Extra virgin olive oil	1 tablespoon	Used for sautéing spinach and drizzling.
Garlic (grated or pressed)	1 clove	Infuses the dish with savory flavor.
Salt	To taste	Balances the flavors.
Black pepper	To taste	Adds a hint of spice and depth.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add your pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve approximately 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the drained pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole-milk ricotta, grated Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
• Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preferences.

3. Wilt the Spinach

• Using the same pot you cooked the pasta in, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the fresh baby spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and tender.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Return the cooked pasta to the pot with the wilted spinach.
• Pour the ricotta mixture over the pasta and spinach.
• Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy ricotta sauce.
• If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls.
• Drizzle each serving with a little extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
• Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.
• Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick, if desired.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

1. The Ricotta Sauce

The creamy ricotta sauce is the star of this dish, combining tangy lemon, nutty Parmesan, and savory garlic for a flavor-packed punch that feels indulgent yet light.

2. The Spinach

Fresh baby spinach not only adds vibrant color but also boosts the nutritional value of this dish. It’s rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a wholesome addition.

3. The Simplicity

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, yet the result is a gourmet-level meal.

Nutritional Highlights

Nutrient	Source	Benefit
Protein	Ricotta, Parmesan	Supports muscle repair and growth.
Calcium	Ricotta, Parmesan	Strengthens bones and teeth.
Fiber	Spinach, pasta	Aids digestion and promotes fullness.
Vitamins	Spinach, lemon	Boosts immunity and supports healthy skin.
Antioxidants	Spinach, garlic	Fights inflammation and supports heart health.

Tips for Perfecting Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, lemon, and high-quality ricotta cheese will elevate the flavor of this dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better when tossed with the creamy sauce.
3. Reserve Enough Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is key to achieving a silky, restaurant-quality sauce.
4. Customize the Flavors: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for extra protein.
5. Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the ricotta sauce is warm and creamy.

FAQs About Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any type of pasta will work, but long noodles like spaghetti or linguine pair especially well with this creamy sauce.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and cook the spinach in advance. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving.

4. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thawed and drained frozen spinach can be used in place of fresh spinach, though fresh will provide a brighter flavor and color.

5. What proteins can I add?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even pan-seared salmon are excellent additions to make this dish heartier.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

Why You Should Make Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Tonight

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is the perfect combination of elegance, comfort, and ease. It’s a dish that feels fancy enough for a special occasion yet simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. The creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and vibrant spinach come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Try It Tonight!

Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this delightful dish. With its creamy sauce, bright flavors, and tender pasta, Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is bound to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete, restaurant-worthy experience. Enjoy!

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