Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a light, luxurious dish that captures the freshness of lemon with the smooth, velvety texture of ricotta cheese. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight pasta that feels gourmet but is incredibly simple to make. The balance of creamy, tangy, and cheesy flavors makes it a true comfort meal with a refreshing twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
• Bright & Creamy – Perfect balance of zesty lemon and rich ricotta.
• Elegant Simplicity – Feels gourmet with minimal ingredients.
• Customizable – Add veggies, herbs, or proteins for variety.
• Comfort Food with a Fresh Twist – Creamy but light and refreshing.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley
• Lemon slices (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Make the Sauce:
   In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Ricotta & Lemon:
   Lower the heat and stir in ricotta, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until creamy.
4. Combine with Pasta:
   Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce is silky and smooth.
5. Finish & Serve:
   Stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Garnish with basil or parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Plating Tips: Twirl pasta onto plates, top with extra lemon zest and Parmesan.
• Side Pairings: Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
• Leftover Uses: Reheat with a splash of milk or cream for next-day lunch.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon.

Additional Tips

• Use whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
• Don’t overheat the ricotta it may curdle; low heat is key.
• Add spinach or peas for color and nutrition.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese.

Variations

• Herb-Infused: Add thyme, dill, or basil for fragrance.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or pan-seared shrimp.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in pecorino or mascarpone for a richer taste.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Not recommended (ricotta may separate).
• Reheat: Stovetop with a splash of milk or water to loosen sauce.

Special Equipment

• Large pot for pasta
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Zester and whisk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat ricotta?
Yes, but whole-milk ricotta gives the best texture.

Can I use lemon juice only?
Zest adds essential flavor use both for best results.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and the same sauce.

Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely spinach, peas, or asparagus work beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a vibrant, creamy, and effortlessly elegant dish. Its balance of rich cheese and refreshing citrus makes it the perfect go-to for quick dinners or light, sophisticated meals.

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