Lemon Ricotta Pasta

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're on the hunt for a dish that's refreshing, creamy, and a snap to make, look no further than this Lemon Ricotta Pasta. It's the perfect blend of tangy lemon and smooth ricotta, making it a standout choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend meal.

Ingredients for Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Spaghetti serves as the hearty base of this dish, providing a neutral canvas for the other flavors to shine. Ricotta cheese is the star here, lending the pasta its creamy texture. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami kick that complements the lemony notes. Lemon zest and lemon juice provide the tangy, vibrant flavor that makes this dish sing. Fresh basil brings a touch of herbal freshness, while olive oil adds a luscious, smooth finish. Garlic is minced to infuse the dish with a subtle, aromatic depth. Finally, a bit of reserved pasta water helps create a cohesive, glossy sauce, while salt and pepper round everything out.

Tips & Tricks

  • Always zest your lemons before juicing them; it’s easier and ensures you get the most zest.
  • If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the lemony notes perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, such as fettuccine or linguine.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ricotta mixture ahead and toss it with hot pasta when ready to serve.
What can I do with leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe Walkthrough

Start by cooking your spaghetti according to the package directions until it's al dente. You'll want it to have just the right amount of bite, so keep an eye on it. Before you drain the pasta, remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water. This might seem like an extra step, but it's crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

While the pasta is cooking, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine ricotta cheese, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until smooth. This mixture is your sauce base, and you'll want it well combined to evenly coat the pasta later.

Once your spaghetti is cooked and drained, toss it into the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Use tongs or a pair of forks to gently fold the pasta until it's evenly coated. If the mixture seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. You want it creamy, but not soupy.

Finally, stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final toss and you're ready to serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Light and refreshing: A great option for a spring or summer meal.
  • Minimal ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
  • Customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite herbs or proteins.

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
4. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and basil leaves if desired.

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