Craving a simple yet sophisticated pasta dish? This lemon ricotta pasta is exactly what you need! It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal that comes together in minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Prepare to be amazed by the creamy, tangy goodness!
What is Lemony Ricotta Pasta?
Ever wonder how some dishes get their quirky names? “Lemony Ricotta Pasta” might sound straightforward, but where did the inspiration REALLY come from? Was it a summer afternoon in Italy, or a happy accident in someone’s kitchen? Maybe it was named after a famously lemon-loving chef, or perhaps the dish simply demanded a name that perfectly captured its bright and creamy essence.
Who am I kidding probably it did came from the ingredients that make this dish! No matter the backstory, one thing’s for sure: this pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. After all, isn’t it said that ‘the way to a man’s (or woman’s!) heart is through their stomach?’ So, why not give this delightful recipe a try and discover the delicious truth for yourself? You will absolutely love this.
Why You’ll Love This Lemony Ricotta Pasta
This Lemony Ricotta Pasta is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly bright and fresh, thanks to the lemon zest and juice that cuts through the richness of the ricotta. Second, making this at home is a budget-friendly option compared to ordering takeout or dining out. You control the quality of the ingredients and can save a bundle.
Finally, the creamy texture and flavorful toppings like fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan (or Pecorino Romano) elevate this simple dish to gourmet status. If you are looking for something similar, but on the healthier side, check out my Creamy Avocado Pasta recipe. It’s another quick dish which is full of healthy fats and packed with flavor. Ready to whip up some lemony goodness in your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients for Lemony Ricotta Pasta:
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite shape)
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Lemony Ricotta Pasta:
This Lemony Ricotta Pasta is delightfully easy, delivering a burst of freshness and creamy indulgence in every bite. The ricotta sauce is simple to prepare, and the dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for a speedy yet satisfying meal.
Total Time: 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Ricotta Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, in a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta and immediately add it to the bowl with the ricotta sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Add Basil and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
What to Serve Lemony Ricotta Pasta With:
To make this Lemony Ricotta Pasta a complete meal, consider serving it with:
- A simple green salad: The refreshing crunch complements the creamy pasta.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers add a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber.
- Garlic bread: For soaking up all that delicious sauce!
- Grilled chicken or shrimp: For added protein.
- A crisp white wine: Such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the lemon flavors.
Top Tips for Perfecting Lemony Ricotta Pasta:
- Use Whole Milk Ricotta: For the creamiest sauce, opt for whole milk ricotta. Part-skim will work, but the texture won’t be as rich.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape and absorbs the sauce better.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is liquid gold. It helps to create a creamy, emulsified sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Taste and Adjust: Adjust the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to your preference. Everyone has different tastes, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Fresh is Best: The flavor of fresh lemon juice and zest is far superior to bottled. And if using fresh basil, add it just before serving to prevent it from wilting.
- Substitute and experiment with other ingredients. Lemon zest can be swapped with orange zest or parsley.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to the pasta before microwaving or heating on the stovetop. This will help restore the creamy texture. Avoid overheating, as it can cause the ricotta to separate.
- Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze leftover pasta. Be aware that the texture may change after thawing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.
Final Thoughts:
This Lemony Ricotta Pasta is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly spectacular. It’s a dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight, yet elegant enough to impress guests. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process of creating this bright and creamy masterpiece. Happy cooking!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Spaghetti, linguine, penne, or even farfalle all work well with this sauce.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes, you can! Use a plant-based ricotta cheese alternative and a vegan Parmesan cheese.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
A: Definitely! Spinach, asparagus, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious additions.
Q: How can I make this spicier?
A: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but if you only have dried, use about 1 teaspoon.
Q: What is the best type of parmesan to use?
A: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. pre-shredded versions usually contain cellulose which prevent cheese from properly melting. High quality parmesean will take this dish to the next level.
Q: Can I add protein to this dish?
A: Yes you can. Grilled chicken, fish, shrimp are all great additions to this dish.
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