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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

A creamy and bright pasta dish that combines ricotta cheese with fresh lemon, perfect for quick dinners and impressing guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz Pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine) Any type of pasta works.
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese The creamy base of the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest For refreshing citrus flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Provides tanginess.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil For a creamy sauce.
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for enhancing flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper For seasoning.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) For savory depth.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil or Parsley (chopped) For garnish.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken For added protein.
  • 1 cup Spinach or Arugula For added greens.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes For sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts For crunch.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about a cup of the pasta water.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Sautéing Garlic
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
  1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic, then dollop the ricotta mixture over the top. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired creaminess.
Finishing Touches
  1. Stir in freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving
  1. Plate the pasta and enjoy it warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Reserve pasta water for a silky sauce. Taste as you go for seasoning adjustments.