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Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
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Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a creamy, fresh, and flavorful pasta dish that combines tangy lemon, smooth ricotta cheese, and nutritious fresh spinach. This light yet satisfying meal is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressive enough to serve guests. It offers a perfect balance of comfort and health, making it a versatile favorite for pasta lovers and anyone looking to refresh their dinner routine.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Dairy

  • 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Produce

  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)

Pantry

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to help thin the sauce later.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, stirring frequently. This step builds the aromatic base of your sauce.
  3. Combine Ricotta and Lemon: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. This mixture forms the creamy and zesty heart of the dish, so be sure to balance the lemon for your preferred tang level.
  4. Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the spinach, then pour in the ricotta-lemon mixture. Toss everything gently, adding reserved pasta water as needed until the sauce coats the pasta beautifully and reaches a silky consistency.
  5. Finish with Parmesan and Seasonings: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, and toss lightly once more to blend flavors. Serve immediately while warm and inviting.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon and spinach make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente to keep the dish light and prevent mushiness.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is perfect for loosening the sauce without watering it down.
  • Adjust Lemon to Taste: Start with less lemon juice and add more gradually so you don’t overpower the creaminess.
  • Warm the Ricotta: Let ricotta come to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon ricotta pasta, spinach pasta, creamy pasta, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner, healthy pasta

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/lemon-ricotta-pasta-with-spinach/