Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe
This refreshing Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach combines creamy ricotta cheese, bright lemon zest and juice, and tender fresh spinach for a light yet satisfying meal. The simple ingredients come together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and comforting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
Sauce
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Other
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta used. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Wilt Spinach: Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Add the fresh spinach and gently stir until the spinach is wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the hot pasta and wilted spinach into the ricotta mixture bowl. Toss everything together, gradually adding reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency that coats the pasta evenly.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the pasta warm, optionally garnished with extra lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Be sure to reserve pasta water to help thin out the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
- Fresh lemon zest brightens the dish; avoid bottled lemon juice for best flavor.
- Feel free to swap spinach for other greens like arugula or kale.
- Serve immediately as the sauce is best enjoyed warm and fresh.
Keywords: Lemon Ricotta Pasta, Spinach Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Quick Italian Dinner, Easy Weeknight Pasta
