Lemon Ricotta Pasta is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance while your kitchen fills with the fresh, zesty aroma of citrus. Picture this: creamy ricotta mingling with bright lemon juice and zest, creating a luscious sauce that clings to perfectly cooked pasta like it’s found its soulmate.
Now, let me take you back to a sun-soaked summer day at my grandmother’s house. The air smelled of blooming flowers and freshly baked bread as I watched her whip up a batch of Lemon Ricotta Pasta. This dish has become my go-to for casual dinners and last-minute gatherings, ensuring that any occasion turns into a flavorful celebration.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Lemon Ricotta Pasta offers quick and easy preparation that fits even the busiest schedules
- Its bright flavors will elevate any dinner table while still being versatile enough for various dietary preferences
- The creamy texture paired with zesty notes creates an irresistible visual appeal that will impress guests
- Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions!
Ingredients for Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta of Your Choice: I recommend using spaghetti or fettuccine for that classic feel, but any pasta works.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture; it adds richness to the sauce.
For the Sauce:
Fresh Lemons: You’ll need both juice and zest; fresh lemons have a brightness that bottled versions just can’t match.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and adds silkiness to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan brings umami goodness; skip the pre-grated stuff if you can!
For Garnish:
Fresh Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and a refreshing taste to finish off your dish beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining!
Step 2: Prepare the Zesty Sauce
While your pasta cooks, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil in it. Mix until smooth and creamy – it should look like sunshine on a plate!
Step 3: Combine Everything
Once the pasta is drained (but not rinsed), add it directly to the bowl with your ricotta mixture. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water little by little until you reach your desired creaminess.
Step 4: Season
Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss again until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – don’t be shy!
Step 5: Serve It Up
Transfer your Lemon Ricotta Pasta onto plates or into bowls. Top each serving with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for that final touch.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Dig in immediately while it’s all warm and inviting! Each bite should be creamy yet zesty – pure bliss on your palate.
Now you’re ready to impress friends or simply treat yourself! With its vibrant flavors and delightful textures, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta will leave everyone clamoring for seconds—just like I did at my grandmother’s table all those years ago!
You Must Know
- This delightful lemon ricotta pasta recipe offers a burst of flavor while being incredibly simple
- You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences
- The creamy texture and zesty notes make it a showstopper for any meal
- Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then drain it, reserving some pasta water. While the pasta cooks, mix ricotta, lemon juice, zest, and seasonings in a separate bowl to create a luscious sauce. Combine everything in one pan for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ricotta for cottage cheese or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can bring heat, while fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish’s freshness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lemon ricotta pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess and avoid dryness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan to enhance flavor and creaminess in your dish
- Always remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; it works wonders for sauce consistency
- If your sauce is too thick, simply add more lemon juice or olive oil for balance
Sometimes I whip up this lemon ricotta pasta when friends come over, and their reactions are priceless—I’ve seen happy tears over how delicious this dish is!
FAQs :
What is Lemon Ricotta Pasta?
Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a creamy, zesty dish that combines fresh ricotta cheese with the bright flavor of lemon. This pasta recipe is simple yet elegant and perfect for any occasion. The ricotta adds a rich texture, while the lemon brings a refreshing citrus note. You can customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or protein, making it versatile for different tastes.
How do you make Lemon Ricotta Pasta?
To make Lemon Ricotta Pasta, start by cooking your favorite pasta according to package instructions. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Drain the pasta and combine it with the ricotta mixture in a large pan over low heat. Toss until well-coated and creamy. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor before serving.
Can I use whole wheat pasta for Lemon Ricotta Pasta?
Yes, you can definitely use whole wheat pasta for Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta. This substitution will enhance the dish’s nutritional profile while still delivering a delightful taste. Just be mindful of the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may require slightly longer to cook.
What can I serve with Lemon Ricotta Pasta?
Lemon Ricotta Pasta pairs beautifully with various side dishes and salads. Consider serving it alongside a light arugula salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a refreshing contrast. Grilled vegetables or garlic bread also complement this dish well, adding texture and flavor while enhancing your meal experience.
Conclusion for Lemon Ricotta Pasta :
In summary, Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon that makes for an impressive yet easy dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this recipe offers versatility through ingredient customization. Pair it with fresh greens or grilled vegetables to elevate your dining experience further. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing!
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a vibrant and creamy dish that brings a burst of sunshine to your table. This delightful recipe combines smooth ricotta cheese with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice and zest, creating a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, promising to impress family and friends alike with its refreshing flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. Mix until smooth.
- Add the drained pasta to the ricotta mixture, tossing gently while adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Season with salt, pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese; mix well.
- Serve immediately, garnishing each plate with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
