Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a dish that dances on your taste buds, bursting with zesty lemon, creamy ricotta, and vibrant green spinach. cucumber caprese salad Just imagine twirling the pasta around your fork, the sauce glistening like sunshine on a summer day. For more inspiration, check out this creamy pasta dish recipe.
This delightful meal is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. It’s one of those recipes that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, leaving everyone at the table beaming with joy and asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a breeze to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is a delightful balance of tangy and creamy, making it irresistible
- Its bright colors make it visually stunning on any dinner plate
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on seasonal ingredients or your cravings!
I remember the first time I made this recipe; my kitchen smelled like an Italian trattoria, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. low carb veggie chicken salad
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: I prefer using linguine or fettuccine for their ability to hold onto the sauce beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this savory linguine recipe recipe.
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Fresh Spinach: Use baby spinach for its tender texture; it wilts perfectly into the warm pasta.
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Ricotta Cheese: Choose creamy ricotta for a luscious texture; it adds that heavenly richness.
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Lemon Zest and Juice: Freshly grated lemon zest brings brightness; don’t skip this for maximum flavor.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the top for added depth and nuttiness.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances all the flavors beautifully.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic warmth to the dish; let it sizzle until fragrant.
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Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning elevates all ingredients; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
First things first: Cooking pasta is essential. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, prepare your spinach. In a separate skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and toss in minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do it. Then add in your fresh spinach and sauté until wilted.
Once that beautiful spinach mixture comes together, turn off the heat and set aside while you check on that pasta. When ready, reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.
Now it’s time for mixing magic! In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese with lemon juice and zest. Stir until smooth and creamy—this step will have you humming with delight as aromas fill your kitchen.
Next up: Add your drained pasta into the bowl with ricotta. Toss gently to coat every noodle in that luscious mixture. If it looks too thick (which could happen), gradually stir in reserved pasta water until you reach desired creaminess.
Finally, fold in sautéed spinach along with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget freshly grated Parmesan if you’re feeling extra fancy—because who wouldn’t want more cheese?
Serve immediately while everything is warm and inviting! Garnish each plate with additional Parmesan cheese and perhaps some extra lemon zest for that wow factor!
With every bite of this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re taking part in an experience filled with flavor and joy!
You Must Know
- This delightful Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a simple yet elegant dish
- It combines creamy ricotta and zesty lemon for a refreshing flavor explosion, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- The vibrant green spinach adds gorgeous color and nutrients, making it a win-win!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta while you sauté the spinach and whip up the lemon ricotta sauce. This multitasking will save time and ensure everything is hot and fresh when served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for extra heartiness. You can also swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different flavor profile. spinach stuffed chicken breast.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your pasta is perfectly al dente, always cook it just until tender, then drain immediately
- Adding lemon zest can elevate the dish’s flavor without needing extra salt
- For a creamier texture, mix in some reserved pasta water before serving
I remember the first time I made this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach for my friends; they couldn’t stop raving about how fresh and flavorful it was. It became an instant favorite!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works great and adds extra nutrients to your dish.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese blended until smooth is a fantastic alternative to ricotta in this recipe. air fryer cottage cheese flatbread.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and makes for easy lunches throughout the week.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a refreshing and creamy dish that brings together vibrant flavors in every bite. With zesty lemon, rich ricotta, and tender spinach, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings. Simple to prepare yet impressive, it’s a delightful way to nourish your body and uplift your spirits.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the linguine in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta with lemon juice and zest until smooth.
- Combine drained pasta with the ricotta mixture. If needed, stir in reserved pasta water for creaminess.
- Fold in sautéed spinach and season with salt and pepper. Top with grated Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 400g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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