Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl, then this Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach is just the ticket! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it strikes the perfect balance between creamy and zesty. Plus, it’s ready in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this pasta dish always brings smiles to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 15 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table. Perfect for those busy evenings!
• Fresh Flavors: The bright lemon and creamy ricotta make every bite refreshing and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta, and this dish is no exception! It’s great for kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily adapt it with different veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Potential: Prep the sauce ahead of time for even quicker meal assembly later on!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach are simple, wholesome, and easy to gather. Each one plays an important role in creating that delightful flavor combination we all crave.

• 1/2 lb (8oz/220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, fusilli…)
• 1 cup (9oz/250 grams) whole-milk ricotta
• 8 oz (230 grams) fresh baby spinach, washed
• 1/3 cup (35 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve
• 1 unwaxed lemon, zest and juice
• 3 lemon wedges, to serve (optional)
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 garlic clove, grated or pressed
• salt and black pepper, to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for an added protein boost.
• Mix Different Greens: Try kale or arugula instead of spinach—they each bring their unique flavors.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute ricotta with cashew cream or your favorite plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh herbs like basil for an extra kick!

How to Make Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until al dente. It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta so that it retains its lovely texture. While it’s cooking, you can start preparing your creamy ricotta sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Season with salt and pepper. Mixing these ingredients creates a luscious sauce that will coat your pasta beautifully. Give it a taste—this is where you can adjust seasoning if necessary!

Step 3: Add Spinach

With just one minute left on the pasta’s cooking time, reserve half a cup of the cooking water before adding the fresh spinach directly into the pot. Stir well and ensure the leaves are submerged; they’ll wilt perfectly in that last minute.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

After draining the pasta and spinach, return them to the pot along with your prepared ricotta sauce and part of the reserved cooking water. Stir everything together gently until every strand of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. If needed, add more of that reserved water until you achieve your desired creaminess.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately while hot! Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, drizzle some olive oil on top, and add lemon wedges if you’d like an extra squeeze of brightness. For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over each plate. Dig in—you’re going to love this delightful meal!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Creating a delicious lemon ricotta pasta is all about the little details! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for shapes like spaghetti or penne that hold the creamy sauce well. This way, every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach and high-quality ricotta can make a world of difference in taste. The freshness enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a delightful brightness to your dish.
• Adjust the consistency: Don’t be afraid to play around with the reserved pasta water. Adding it gradually helps you achieve your desired creaminess without making the dish too watery.
• Taste as you go: Seasoning at every step is key! Taste your ricotta sauce before combining it with the pasta, and adjust salt or pepper as needed for a balanced flavor.
• Add a kick if desired: A pinch of red pepper flakes not only adds heat but also complements the citrusy lemon flavor beautifully, giving your dish an extra layer of depth.

How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Presentation can elevate any meal, and this lemon ricotta pasta is no exception! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds richness and complements the creaminess of the ricotta perfectly.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped fresh basil or parsley can add a pop of color and an aromatic touch.
• Lemon zest: A final sprinkle of lemon zest brightens up the dish visually and enhances that zesty flavor we love!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes for an irresistible pairing, perfect for scooping up leftover sauce.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, adding freshness and crunch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as asparagus or zucchini add color and nutrients alongside your pasta.
• Steamed broccoli: Quick to prepare, steamed broccoli offers a nutritious side option that complements the flavors without overwhelming them.

Enjoy serving this delightful lemon ricotta pasta with spinach, making it a memorable meal for any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon ricotta pasta with spinach is not only a delightful weeknight meal but also perfect for meal prep! With just a few simple steps, you can make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the pasta cool down entirely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
• Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
• If using a microwave, cover the dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I use other types of pasta for Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile; feel free to use spaghetti, penne, or any pasta shape you enjoy. The creamy lemon ricotta sauce pairs well with all varieties.

How do I make Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach without Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Alternatively, consider using vegan cheese or simply enjoy the dish without cheese; it’s still delicious!

Can Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach be made gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety. The flavors will remain vibrant and satisfying.

Is Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Lemon ricotta pasta with spinach as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with fresh flavors that brighten any dinner table. Enjoy preparing this delightful dish, and feel free to add your personal touches along the way. Happy cooking!