Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. It combines creamy ricotta cheese with the bright taste of lemon and the nutritional benefits of spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch. The simplicity of the ingredients allows you to create a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a light yet satisfying pasta dish.
How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the ricotta mixture, tossing to coat.
- If the pasta is too dry, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach right away while it’s hot. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds extra flavor. You can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. It also makes for a great dish at a dinner gathering or potluck.
How to Store Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a little water or olive oil in a pan and heat on low until warmed through. You may want to add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors again.
Tips to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- You can add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for extra nutrition and taste.
- Experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole grain or gluten-free options, to suit your dietary needs.
Variation
For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also substitute the spinach with other greens like arugula or kale if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different taste and texture.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ricotta mixture ahead of time and add the pasta and spinach just before serving.
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Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and flavorful pasta dish made with creamy ricotta cheese, bright lemon, and nutritious spinach, perfect for quick dinners or lunches.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the ricotta mixture, tossing to coat.
- If the pasta is too dry, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also substitute spinach with arugula or kale. Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg