Description
Lemon ricotta pasta delivers a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dish with silky noodles and tangy cheese. Fresh herbs and creamy sauce create a simple yet elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Flavoring and Seasoning:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional Components:
- 1/2 cup pasta water (as needed)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, carefully extracting 1/2 cup of starchy cooking liquid before draining.
- Create a luxurious sauce by vigorously whisking ricotta with grated parmesan, aromatic lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, smooth olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Gently fold the hot pasta into the creamy sauce, incrementally introducing reserved pasta water to develop a silky, luxurious texture that clings elegantly to each pasta strand.
- For those desiring a subtle heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes across the dish and fold delicately to distribute the spicy notes evenly.
- Elevate the presentation by scattering freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top, creating a vibrant, aromatic finish that adds both color and a burst of herbaceous flavor. Serve immediately while the pasta remains warm and inviting.
Notes
- Substitute gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same creamy texture and flavor profile.
- Use dairy-free ricotta alternatives like cashew or tofu ricotta for a vegan adaptation that preserves the dish’s rich creaminess.
- Enhance protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed white beans directly into the pasta mixture for a more substantial meal.
- Control sauce thickness by adjusting pasta water gradually, ensuring a silky smooth consistency without becoming too runny or dry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 408 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 53 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 26 mg