Description
This creamy lemon ricotta pasta is a quick and delicious dish that combines the bright flavor of lemon with the creamy texture of ricotta. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, it can be made in about 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, for serving)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir to combine.
- Add the ricotta mixture to the pasta, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together until the pasta is well-coated and creamy. Add more pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Feel free to customize with seasonal veggies or protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 12
Keywords: creamy pasta, lemon ricotta, quick lunch, easy recipe