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


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  • Author: Raven
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is the ultimate blend of indulgence and freshness. With al dente pasta coated in a creamy ricotta sauce, zesty lemon accents, and tender spinach, this dish is as satisfying as it is healthy. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or as an elegant dish for entertaining!


Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ lb (8 oz / 220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, or fusilli)
  • 1 cup (9 oz / 250 grams) whole-milk ricotta
  • 8 oz (230 grams) fresh baby spinach, rinsed
  • ⅓ cup (35 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, with more for sprinkling
  • 1 unwaxed lemon, zest and juice
  • 3 lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1 garlic clove, grated or pressed
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
  3. Reserve approximately 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.

2. Make the Ricotta Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, grated Parmesan cheese, grated or pressed garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  2. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
  3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Wilt the Spinach

  1. Using the same pot you cooked the pasta in, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Return the cooked pasta to the pot with the wilted spinach.
  2. Pour the ricotta mixture over the pasta and spinach.
  3. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  4. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

5. Serve

  1. Divide the pasta into serving plates or bowls.
  2. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added richness.
  3. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and serve with lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick.

Notes

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach, high-quality ricotta, and unwaxed lemons for the best flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it holds its texture and absorbs the sauce perfectly.
  • Make It Your Own: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cherry tomatoes for a more robust dish.
  • Leftover Sauce?: Use the leftover sauce as a spread on toasted bread or as a dip for veggies!
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired