Zesty Lemon Ricotta & Spinach Pasta Recipe – Fresh, Creamy, and Full of Flavor

When it comes to quick and tasty pasta dishes, Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta stands out as a delightful choice. The creamy richness of ricotta, combined with the tangy zing of lemon and the freshness of spinach, creates a flavor-packed dish that is both comforting and light. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to win over your taste buds. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this simple, yet sensational pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta (Spaghetti, Penne, or Fusilli – choose your favorite)
• Ricotta cheese – about 1 cup for a creamy texture
• Fresh spinach – 3 cups, washed and chopped
• Lemon zest – 1 tablespoon for that fresh zing
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, grated (optional but recommended)
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water for later, then drain the rest.
2. Cook the Spinach and Garlic: While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, which will only take a couple of minutes.
3. Combine Ricotta and Lemon: In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with spinach and garlic. Stir to combine. Then, add the ricotta mixture and a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Finish with Parmesan: If you like a little extra richness, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and give it one last toss.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta with a little extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

• Texture Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add more ricotta cheese or use less pasta water.
• For a Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for some extra protein.
• Vegan Version: Use a plant-based ricotta or a dairy-free substitute to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Time and Serving

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Serves: 4

Storage

This Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen up the sauce before warming it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: For the best texture, make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your spinach and lemons, the better the overall flavor.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley to make the dish even more vibrant and colorful.

How to Serve

This pasta dish is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread or a light salad. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Sauté pan for garlic and spinach
• Mixing bowl for ricotta and lemon sauce
• Grater for Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Tongs or pasta spoon for tossing the pasta

Health Benefits of Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious! The spinach adds a good amount of fiber, iron, and vitamins A and C, while ricotta provides a creamy texture without being overly fatty. The lemon adds a dose of vitamin C, promoting a healthy immune system. Additionally, the olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, making this a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly fine! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

2. Can I substitute ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute it with cream cheese, cottage cheese, or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

3. How do I make this recipe spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic or a splash of hot sauce when tossing the pasta.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance and cook everything just before serving. The dish also reheats well if you store it in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is a perfect blend of creaminess, freshness, and zest. It’s an easy-to-make dish that brings comfort without being too heavy. The tangy lemon, paired with the smooth ricotta and vibrant spinach, makes it a go-to recipe for any pasta lover. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation.