Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

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Here’s a fresh, light, and creamy pasta recipe for you — Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta. It’s a dish that balances the brightness of lemon, the creaminess of ricotta, and the earthy goodness of spinach, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.

🍋 Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work well)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 5 oz (140 g) fresh spinach leaves

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)

  • Zest of 1 large lemon

  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ cup reserved pasta water (more as needed)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  • Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions.

  • Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain.

2. Sauté the Spinach

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  • Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  • Add spinach and sauté until just wilted, about 2 minutes.

  • Season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Make the Ricotta Sauce

  • In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of pasta water until smooth and creamy.

  • Adjust thickness by adding more pasta water as needed.

4. Combine Everything

  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet with spinach.

  • Pour the ricotta-lemon mixture over the pasta and toss gently to coat.

  • Add more pasta water little by little until a silky sauce clings to the noodles.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.

5. Serve

  • Plate pasta and sprinkle with extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh herbs.

  • Finish with a drizzle of olive oil for richness.

Tips & Variations

  • Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra heartiness.

  • Nutty twist: Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch.

  • Extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream with the ricotta for a richer sauce.

  • Make it lighter: Use part-skim ricotta and whole wheat pasta.

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