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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 23 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Boiled, Mixed
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a creamy, tangy, and refreshing dish that pairs rich ricotta cheese with bright lemon zest and juice. It’s a quick, elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or springtime gatherings.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
  2. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, and sautéed garlic. Stir to mix well.
  4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce as needed.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber or protein.
  • Add peas, spinach, or arugula for a veggie boost.
  • Great served warm or at room temperature as a pasta salad variation.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/3 of recipe
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 240mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg