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Ricotta Lemon Pasta Recipe

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4.1 from 40 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Ricotta Lemon Pasta is a creamy and bright Italian main course that combines fresh lemon zest and juice with whole-milk ricotta and Parmesan to create a luscious, silky sauce. The sauce is effortlessly made by tossing hot pasta with the ricotta mixture and a bit of starchy pasta water, eliminating the need for heavy cream. Enhanced by garlic, olive oil, fresh herbs, and optional red pepper flakes, this recipe delivers an easy, vibrant, and satisfying vegetarian pasta dish perfect for a quick dinner.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine

Sauce

  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
  2. Mix the sauce ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole-milk ricotta, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
  3. Add the pasta: Add the hot, drained pasta to the bowl with the ricotta mixture.
  4. Toss with pasta water: Gently toss the pasta while gradually adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time. Continue tossing until the ricotta cheese melts and transforms into a smooth and creamy sauce that evenly coats the pasta.
  5. Finish with herbs and spice: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley or basil and add red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat.
  6. Serve immediately: Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan cheese and additional lemon zest to brighten the flavors.

Notes

  • Use whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest and richest texture in the sauce.
  • Add vegetables such as spinach, peas, asparagus, or roasted zucchini to increase nutrition and flavor.
  • Do not skip adding reserved pasta water; it is key for creating the silky texture of the sauce by incorporating the pasta starch.
  • For added protein, consider topping with grilled chicken or shrimp.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://myhomemadecooking.com/ricotta-lemon-pasta-recipe/