Woman eating Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Hey there, foodie friends! We’re going to dig into a fantastic and comforting dish today, an ode to Mediterranean cuisine – a sublime Lemon Ricotta Pasta.
This is a go-to, quick-and-easy, crowd-pleaser meal for all seasons. It’s elegant enough for dinner parties yet straightforward enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner! I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

We’re about to travel on a culinary adventure today that will tickle your taste buds, and illicit sighs of contentment from your dinner guests. Imagine a pasta dish that’s as light as a fluffy cloud on a Spring day, yet as pleasingly luscious as your ultimate comfort food.

Close your eyes and imagine the gentle, tangy kiss of fresh lemon, dancing a waltz with creamy, mellow ricotta. Each strand of pasta is slick with this heavenly union, shouting for your attention. Each bite is a crescendo of flavors, every mouthful a burst of sunshine.
Well, stop daydreaming folks, and let us bring that epicurean mirage to life!

Lemon Ricotta Pasta served on a plate

Lemon Ricotta Pasta recipe

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a one-pot wonder, a perfect blend of simpler times and gourmet delight. It cleverly combines pantry staples, is super easy to make, and it’s a recipe that you can tweak to your heart's content. The creamy light ricotta juxtaposed against the zesty lemon is a surprise in every bite – a culinary romance in your kitchen!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Accompaniment
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Medium saucepan for heating ricotta sauce
  • Wooden spoon for stirring sauce
  • Grater for zesting lemon
  • Juicer or citrus squeezer for extracting lemon juice
  • Cutting board for chopping parsley
  • Knife for cutting parsley

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta of your choice such as spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 lemons zested and juiced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the zested lemon peel and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  • Add the ricotta cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  • Add the lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan and toss until the pasta is well coated in the ricotta sauce.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Nutritional Facts per Portion:
Calories: 420
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 35g
Protein: 18g
Keyword lemon, pasta, ricotta

When you’ve followed through on this recipe, you end up with a delightful bowl of pasta teeming with the zest of lemon and creaminess of ricotta cheese. Subtle hints of garlic and a kick of spiciness from freshly cracked black pepper elevate this meal to gourmet status. This is a plate of pasta that you will be immensely proud to serve!

Recommended Pairing Drink:

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which perfectly partners with the distinct lemon flavors.

Recommended Pairing Dish:

A tangy tomato salad on the side would not go amiss as it complements the creamy pasta really well.

Useful Tips:

  • Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta – it should still have a bit of bite.
  • Want a spicy kick? Just add some red pepper flakes.
  • Use different types of pasta for a change of pace.
  • The dish is best served hot and garnished with extra zest.

FAQs:

Can I use frozen ricotta cheese?

Yes, frozen ricotta cheese will work just fine. Just thaw it in the microwave before using.

Can I substitute lemon with lime?

Yes, lime will work as a substitute for lemon, but keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I add some protein to this dish?

Of course, you can add some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Can this dish be made vegan?

Yes, just replace the ricotta with a vegan substitute.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Spaghetti, Fusilli, or even Farfalle works great.

Can I add vegetables to it?

Sure, any veggies would be great. Try asparagus or peas for Spring, or zucchini in the Summer.

Lemon Ricotta Pasta served on a table

Alright foodie friends, let’s put on our aprons and cook up this bowl of sunshine! Your dinner scene is about to get a beautiful makeover. Happy cooking!

Your zesty, easy-to-make love affair awaits with our Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe. Get cooking now!

Please share, thank you!

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