Name: Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 lb (8 oz/220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, or fusilli); 1 cup (9 oz/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

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Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the fresh zestiness of lemon, all intertwined with perfectly cooked pasta and vibrant spinach. Each bite bursts with flavors that are both refreshing and comforting. This dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet taste, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With its quick preparation and minimal ingredients, this pasta recipe is truly worth making.

What makes this recipe extraordinary is its ease of preparation combined with powerful flavors that appeal to everyone in the family. It’s a step-by-step approach that guarantees success in every kitchen, helping you create a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, your loved ones will appreciate this dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to whip up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. It requires minimal prep time, making it a family-friendly option that everyone will enjoy, from kids to adults. The ingredients are straightforward; you’ll only need pasta, ricotta, spinach, and a few staple items commonly found in most kitchens. The best part? This dish takes under 30 minutes to make from start to finish!

Moreover, with versatile options for pasta types, you can customize this dish according to your preferences. Want a bit of extra texture? Use fusilli or penne. Long strands of spaghetti can evoke a sense of elegance, perfect for entertaining guests. Regardless of how you choose to present the meal, every bite will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

1/2 lb (8 oz/220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, or fusilli)
1 cup (9 oz/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

Step-by-Step Directions for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta of your choice until it reaches an ‘al dente’ texture. This will typically take about 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the type.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the ricotta sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the whole-milk ricotta, a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated garlic, and the zest and juice of the unwaxed lemon. Season the mixture generously with salt and black pepper.
Just one minute before the pasta is done cooking, add the fresh spinach to the pot. Stir to ensure that the spinach wilts down and is submerged in the boiling water.
Drain the pasta and spinach mixture, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Return the drained pasta and spinach to the pot and immediately add the prepared ricotta sauce. Stir everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a creamy texture.
Serve the dish garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor if desired. For a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach, consider these chef’s secrets. For added depth, sauté the garlic in olive oil for a minute before adding to the ricotta—this enhances its flavor immensely. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or crushed black pepper at the end. For a more aromatic touch, embrace the addition of herbs like basil or parsley to garnish.

When entertaining, consider serving the dish in a beautiful bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. If you like extra lemon flavor, use the juice of two lemons instead of one. For a luxurious touch, try mixing in some sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken and make it a more protein-packed meal.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach pairs beautifully with a light side salad, such as a mixed greens salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette. Adding cherry tomatoes or cucumbers can provide an extra crunch and freshness that complements the creamy pasta perfectly. For those looking to enjoy wine with their meal, a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc would harmonize well with the lemony notes of the dish.

Additionally, serving garlic bread alongside this dish can make for a satisfying and complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving some roasted vegetables to round out your plate.

Nutritional Information

This Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is not only delicious but also offers a balanced meal with a combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. On average, one serving of this pasta dish comes to about 400-500 calories, depending on portion sizes and any additional toppings you choose to add. Ricotta is a good source of protein and calcium, while spinach provides fiber and essential vitamins.

If you want to make the dish lighter, consider using whole-wheat pasta or a lower-fat ricotta. Keep in mind that while this dish is indulgent, it provides ample nutritional benefits and a reassuring sense of satisfaction.

Storing Tips & Variations for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, use a little bit of reserved pasta water or olive oil to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out.

For those looking for healthier swaps, try using zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lower-carb option while maintaining delicious flavors. You can also experiment with different greens, such as kale or arugula, to give the dish a different texture and flavor profile.

Adding your favorite protein, like grilled chicken or chickpeas, makes the meal even more satisfying. You can also substitute the ricotta with a vegan alternative made from cashews or tofu for a dairy-free option!

Conclusion for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

With its enticing blend of flavors and quick preparation time, Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is a recipe you shouldn’t pass up. It’s perfect for those busy weekdays or a special occasion where you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy richness of ricotta combined with the zesty brightness of lemon makes this dish a sure hit. Don’t miss out on this easy-to-make comfort food!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free options.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! If you’re looking for extra protein, consider adding chickpeas or a variety of beans.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While pasta dishes generally freeze well, the texture of ricotta might change after freezing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for up to two days in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for ricotta?
For a dairy-free version, consider using a vegan ricotta made from blended tofu or cashews.
How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
Use whole-wheat pasta and light ricotta cheese, and reduce the amount of olive oil. You can also skip the cheese garnish to cut calories further.

This Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of home cooking with this delicious dish.