Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

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Introduction

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a quick and refreshing dish that combines the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese with the bright, tangy flavors of lemon. The addition of fresh spinach brings a pop of color and a nutritious element, while Parmesan cheese and garlic provide depth of flavor. This dish is perfect for a light and easy weeknight meal, and it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a great option when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 lb (8 oz/220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, fusilli)
  • 1 cup (9 oz/250 grams) whole-milk ricotta
  • 8 oz (230 grams) fresh baby spinach, washed
  • 1/3 cup (35 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve
  • 1 unwaxed lemon, zest and juice
  • 3 lemon wedges, to serve (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1 garlic clove, grated or pressed
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 1/2 lb of pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water in the last minute of cooking, then add the 8 oz of fresh baby spinach to the pot. Stir the spinach to submerge it in the boiling water.
  3. After 1 minute, drain the pasta and spinach together and return them to the same pot.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce

  1. While the pasta is cooking, in a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 grated garlic clove, lemon zest, and lemon juice from 1 unwaxed lemon.
  2. Season the mixture with 1/4 teaspoon salt and a generous pinch of black pepper. Stir until well combined to form a creamy sauce.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

  1. Add the ricotta sauce to the drained pasta and spinach.
  2. Gradually stir in a portion of the reserved pasta cooking water, using just enough to create a smooth and creamy texture. Continue to stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the ricotta sauce.
  3. If needed, add more of the reserved cooking water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with extra grated or shaved Parmesan cheese.
  2. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top for added richness.
  3. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor, and for those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Cooking Notes:

  • Pasta Options: You can use any type of pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, depending on your preference.
  • Lemon Flavor: For a more pronounced lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest or juice as desired.
  • Ricotta Substitute: For a lighter option, you can substitute the ricotta with part-skim ricotta or Greek yogurt.

Serving Suggestions:

  • With Grilled Chicken: Serve this lemon ricotta pasta alongside grilled chicken for added protein.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair the pasta with a light green salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors.

Tips:

  • Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve the pasta cooking water—it helps loosen the ricotta sauce and gives the dish a smooth, silky texture.
  • Make It Creamier: If you prefer a creamier texture, add more ricotta or a splash of cream to the sauce.
  • Vegetarian Option: This dish is naturally vegetarian but can easily be made vegan by using dairy-free ricotta and Parmesan substitutes.

Prep Time:

  • 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

  • 10 minutes

Total Time:

  • 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 538 kcal
  • Protein: 22g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Conclusion

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a light, creamy, and tangy dish that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. The ricotta and Parmesan mixture pairs beautifully with the fresh spinach and lemon, creating a pasta dish that is both refreshing and indulgent. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this pasta makes for the perfect weeknight dinner or an easy lunch. Serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and extra Parmesan for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds

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