This creamy lemon ricotta pasta is a bright and tasty dish, perfect for a quick dinner! The ricotta adds a smooth texture while the lemon brings a refreshing zing.
I love how simple it is to whip up this pasta! Just mix the ingredients, and you get a delightful meal in no time. It’s like a hug on a plate! 🍋✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: This pasta holds onto the creamy sauce well. You can swap it for other shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle if you prefer something different. Just adjust cooking times if necessary!
Ricotta Cheese: Fresh ricotta gives the best texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, cottage cheese can work in a pinch, but blend it for creaminess. Cream cheese is another alternative, though it has a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty note. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast is an awesome substitute that gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely, but you can use kale or arugula for a different taste and texture. Frozen spinach is also a convenient option—just thaw and drain it well!
How Do I Make A Creamy Sauce with Ricotta?
Mixing ricotta into pasta for a creamy sauce may seem tricky. However, the trick is to slowly incorporate reserved pasta water to achieve that perfect creamy texture. Here’s how:
- Start with adding the ricotta to the skillet with the cooked pasta and spinach.
- Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, about a tablespoon at a time, and stir.
- The warmth of the pasta helps to loosen the ricotta, creating a smooth sauce. Continue until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Just remember to keep tasting! You can adjust with more lemon juice or seasoning as desired.
With a little patience, you’ll have a silky sauce that perfectly coats your pasta.
Easy Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni or similar pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and just 10 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Just before draining, be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add the Spinach:
Now, toss in the fresh spinach. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes until it’s just wilted. This will keep it vibrant and delicious.
4. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season this mixture with a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting as you go to get it just right!
5. Combine Pasta and Spinach:
Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the sautéed spinach and garlic. Now, remove the skillet from the heat to cool it slightly.
6. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Carefully fold the ricotta mixture into the pasta, allowing it to combine evenly. Gradually add in the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a creamy consistency that coats the pasta nicely.
7. Adjust the Flavor:
Give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice according to your preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy lemon ricotta pasta immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for a finishing touch. Enjoy this delightful dish because you’ve earned it!
This luscious lemon ricotta pasta is creamy and fresh with the zing of lemon and peppery spinach, making it a satisfying and easy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Rigatoni?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative if you’re looking for more fiber. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to check the package for the perfect al dente texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Lemon Ricotta Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some sauce, so you might want to add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating to revive the creaminess!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the ricotta with an almond or cashew-based cheese, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. You can also replace the olive oil with a plant-based butter alternative while cooking.
How Can I Add More Protein to This Meal?
If you’re looking to add more protein, consider tossing in some cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas for a hearty twist. Just mix it in before serving for a balanced meal!
