Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a refreshing and creamy dish that balances the richness of ricotta cheese with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. It’s a simple yet elegant meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it delivers gourmet flavor with very little effort.

ingredients

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

pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)whole milk ricotta cheesefresh lemon juicelemon zestsaltblack pepperolive oilgarlic (minced)grated Parmesan cheesefresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Lower the heat and stir in ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Gradually add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix until well combined.

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra lemon zest if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add baby spinach or arugula for extra greens and texture.

Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Swap ricotta with mascarpone for an even creamier texture.

Mix in red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat.

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.Avoid microwaving for too long as the ricotta can separate.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought ricotta?

Yes, but for best flavor and texture, use high-quality whole milk ricotta.

What type of pasta works best?

Long noodles like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine pair well with creamy sauces.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce and cook pasta separately ahead, then combine before serving.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as your Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.

How can I make it extra creamy?

Use a touch of heavy cream or add a bit more ricotta.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild lemony flavor and creamy texture make it appealing to children.

What wine pairs well with this?

A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements it beautifully.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s not ideal, as the ricotta sauce may separate when thawed.

Do I need to use garlic?

Garlic adds depth but can be skipped for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Ricotta Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy and zesty, bringing together comfort and brightness in every bite. It’s a fast, flavorful dish that suits both casual dinners and elegant gatherings. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular favorite on your menu.