Name: Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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This Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors that come together in just 25 minutes. The rich ricotta cheese, combined with the freshness of spinach and a burst of lemon, creates a light but satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting vegetarian option, this dish delivers on taste and ease.

Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta cooking water.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.

Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the ricotta sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: If I want to make the dish heartier, I often add grilled chicken or shrimp for some extra protein.

Vegan Option: I can swap out the ricotta cheese for a plant-based alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to make it vegan.

Spicy Kick: If I’m in the mood for a little heat, I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing.

Herbs and Greens: For extra flavor, I can mix in some fresh thyme, rosemary, or arugula along with the spinach.

Storage/Reheating

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but I can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, I usually warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to bring back the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, I can use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the recipe.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, I would simply swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, I can prep the ricotta sauce and store it in the fridge. I’ll just need to reheat the sauce and cook the pasta when I’m ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

If I don’t have ricotta, I can substitute with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture, although the flavor will be slightly different.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If I like it spicy, I can add some red pepper flakes or even a bit of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Conclusion

This Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is the ultimate weeknight meal when I need something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. The creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and refreshing lemon make every bite delicious, while being light enough for any occasion. Whether served as a standalone dish or paired with a side, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in my recipe rotation!

Recipe:

Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors. The rich ricotta cheese, combined with spinach and a burst of lemon, creates a light but satisfying meal.

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta cooking water.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the ricotta sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.