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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

A creamy and zesty pasta dish featuring fresh ricotta, bright lemon zest, and sautéed spinach, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta Use any medium pasta shape like fusilli or penne.
  • 0.5 cup reserved pasta water Reserve water before draining the pasta.
Vegetable Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
  • 2 cups spinach leaves Fresh spinach adds nutrients and color.
  • 1 medium shallot Chopped, for mild onion flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced, for depth of flavor.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Ensure it is fresh for a creamy texture.
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest Brightens the dish.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Adds acidity.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese Grated, for a salty, nutty flavor.
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt To taste.
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper To taste.
Garnish
  • 0.25 cup freshly chopped basil For garnish.
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes Optional, for a hint of heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water and drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the pot.
  2. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the spinach and shallot, cooking until the spinach is wilted. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring until creamy. Incorporate the reserved pasta water until well combined. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper.
  4. Add the pasta to the skillet and stir well until the pasta is fully coated in the ricotta sauce. Garnish with basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired, along with an extra squeeze of lemon juice for more flavor. Serve immediately.
Storage
  1. Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water to maintain creaminess.

Notes

Be mindful not to overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm to the bite for the best texture. For variations, consider adding grilled chicken or seasonal vegetables.