Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lemon ricotta pasta with spinach offers a delightful balance of creamy, citrusy, and savory flavors. The ricotta sauce is rich yet light, and the addition of fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition. The dish is easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients while still delivering a satisfying meal. Perfect for both vegetarians and pasta lovers, it’s a go-to recipe that’s sure to please anyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your preferred type)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 lemon (zest and juice)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.

2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them in as well.

4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper.

5. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the spinach. Toss to coat the pasta in the spinach and garlic mixture.

6. Add the ricotta mixture to the skillet and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency.

7. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a little extra lemon zest, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some crispy pancetta.

• Vegetarian Twist: Incorporate roasted vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.

• Vegan Version: Swap out ricotta cheese for a vegan ricotta or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to help loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in a covered dish with a splash of water.

FAQs

How do I make the sauce creamier?

To make the sauce creamier, you can add more ricotta cheese or incorporate a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine are great options, but feel free to use whatever type of pasta you prefer.

Can I substitute ricotta cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese if you prefer. For a vegan option, try cashew cream or tofu-based ricotta.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pasta, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

Can I make this pasta in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately and combine them just before serving. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the pasta a bit of heat.

Can I use jarred garlic instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic gives the best flavor, you can use jarred garlic in a pinch. Just use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic paste or minced garlic.

What if I don’t like spinach?

You can easily replace spinach with other leafy greens like kale, arugula, or even basil for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze leftover pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze pasta with creamy sauces as the texture of the ricotta may change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the pasta without the sauce and then prepare a fresh sauce when reheating.

Conclusion

Lemon ricotta pasta with spinach is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients in a creamy, comforting way. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal on its own or pair it with your favorite protein, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your recipe rotation. Quick to make and full of flavor, this pasta is perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. Enjoy!