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–+ servings

20 Minute Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Simple creamy and so refreshing, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a 20 minute meal that is so effortless. A comforting and cozy bowl of pasta with a pop of citrus flavor in rich creamy ricotta--this is a family favorite! Serve with fresh bread and a salad and dinner is complete!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 438
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz. short pasta (rotini, cavatappi, medium shells, penne, etc.)
  • 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup grated parmesan (freshly grated for creamiest sauce)
  • 3 Tbsp olive oil (separated)
  • 2 - 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 T lemon zest
  • 2 -3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp cracked pepper
  • 3 oz chopped baby spinach
  • 1 - 1 ½ c reserved pasta water

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. While waiting for water to boil, whisk together the ricotta, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon zest, and seasoning to a small bowl.
  3. While the pasta is boiling, heat a medium saucepan to medium heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once glistening, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant for about one minute. Before your drain your pasta, scoop out at least a cup and a half of pasta water and reserve it for the sauce!
  4. Add the lemon ricotta mixture to the sauce pan and allow it to heat up, whisking occasionally. Add about 1/2 cup of the reserved water water to thin the sauce out slightly and this will also help coat the pasta with the sauce. Go a touch thinner than you prefer as it will thicken slightly when you toss with the pasta and heat.
  5. When pasta is ready, drain and add back to the pot along with spinach over top. Pour the lemon ricotta sauce over the pasta and spinach.
  6. Toss the pasta with the sauce and allow it to coat evenly while also wilting the spinach. You can add more pasta water if it seems to thick. Adjust seasoning to taste and you are ready to serve!
  7. Serve with freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley or basil on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 438kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 18gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 43mgSodium: 414mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

  • For perfectly cooked pasta, aim for al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. Check the package instructions 1-2 minutes before the suggested cooking time to avoid overcooking.
  • Add the reserved pasta water gradually to the sauce; it’s easier to thin out a thick sauce than to fix a watery one. Start with ½ cup, and then adjust to your preferred consistency.
  • If you're short on time, cook your protein (like grilled chicken or shrimp) in advance and simply add it to the pasta before serving for a complete meal in a flash.
  • For creamier sauce, always opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated, as it melts better and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.

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