Description
Lemon ricotta pasta delivers a Mediterranean-inspired comfort meal with silky sauce and bright flavor. Quick preparation meets elegant dining, inviting home cooks to savor fresh ingredients and simple culinary magic.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
- 1 cup (240 ml) ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) pasta water (reserved)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, ensuring a tender yet firm texture.
- While pasta cooks, prepare a vibrant sauce by whisking ricotta cheese with bright lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, rich olive oil, grated Parmesan, and seasonings.
- Drain pasta, reserving a quarter cup of starchy cooking liquid to help create a silky, smooth sauce consistency.
- Transfer hot pasta directly into the ricotta mixture, gently folding and coating each strand until a creamy, luxurious coating develops.
- If sauce seems thick, gradually incorporate reserved pasta water, stirring until achieving a light, glossy texture that clings perfectly to the noodles.
- Plate immediately, garnishing with delicate fresh herb sprinkles and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elevated finish.
- Serve warm to preserve the pasta’s tender texture and ensure the sauce remains wonderfully creamy and inviting.
Notes
- Swap ricotta for dairy-free alternatives like cashew or tofu ricotta to make the dish vegan-friendly and accommodating for lactose-intolerant individuals.
- Enhance protein content by adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for a more substantial meal that keeps you satisfied longer.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to modify the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the creamy, zesty flavor profile.
- Try fresh herbs like basil, chives, or dill to introduce additional layers of freshness and customize the dish to personal taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 440 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg