Description
A bright and creamy pasta dish featuring ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and zesty lemon, tossed with tender pasta for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with spinach.
- Stir in the ricotta mixture and a little reserved pasta water to create a smooth creamy sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of additional pasta water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian