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Ricotta Cheese Pasta with Spinach and Lemon Recipe

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4.1 from 6 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This creamy and delicious Ricotta Cheese Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining al dente pasta with a smooth ricotta sauce, fresh spinach, and a bright hint of lemon zest, it delivers rich flavors with minimal ingredients and effort. Topped with Parmesan cheese, this recipe balances creaminess and freshness for a satisfying meal in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Pasta & Sauce

  • 1/2 pound dry pasta
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large garlic cloves
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
  • Juice and zest of one lemon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Vegetables

  • 8 oz baby spinach leaves

Garnish

  • Parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Additional lemon zest, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  2. Prepare ricotta sauce: In a mini food processor, combine 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water with the ricotta cheese and process until smooth and well combined.
  3. Sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
  4. Cook spinach: Add the baby spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until they wilt down, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add ricotta mixture: Pour the ricotta and pasta water mixture into the skillet with the garlic and spinach. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then stir to combine.
  6. Add lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and half of the lemon zest to brighten the sauce.
  7. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly, adjusting seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve: Divide pasta among serving bowls and garnish with remaining lemon zest and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water is important to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best bright flavor.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture.
  • For a vegan variation, substitute ricotta with a plant-based cheese and omit Parmesan.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/ricotta-cheese-pasta-with-spinach-and-lemon-recipe/