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Ricotta Lemon Pasta Recipe

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4.3 from 26 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Ricotta Lemon Pasta is a simple yet elegant Italian dish featuring creamy ricotta cheese combined with bright lemon zest and juice, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. The sauce is made silky smooth by starchy reserved pasta water, eliminating the need for heavy cream. It’s a quick and refreshing pasta recipe perfect for a light weeknight dinner or a creamy vegetarian main course.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine

Sauce

  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Finishing

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. Make the sauce base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole-milk ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix together gently but thoroughly.
  3. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the hot drained pasta to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss gently to begin mixing the pasta and cheese.
  4. Create creamy sauce: Slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time while continuously tossing the pasta. This starchy water helps the ricotta melt and transform into a smooth, creamy coating over the noodles.
  5. Finish with herbs and spice: Stir in the freshly chopped parsley or basil, and add red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat. Mix everything until evenly combined.
  6. Serve immediately: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest for added flavor and brightness.

Notes

  • Use whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest, richest sauce texture.
  • Add vegetables like spinach, peas, asparagus, or roasted zucchini to boost nutrition and color.
  • Do not skip reserving pasta water—it’s key to transforming the ricotta into a silky sauce.
  • For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp before serving.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://sarasplate.com/ricotta-lemon-pasta-recipe/