If you’re in the mood for something that feels effortlessly elegant yet cozy enough for a weeknight, Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is about to become your new go-to recipe. Think of twirls of silky pasta bathed in a luscious ricotta-lemon sauce, speckled with tender wilted spinach, and finished with a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan. The zingy freshness of lemon paired with the creamy texture of ricotta gives every bite a summery lift, while a handful of pantry staples transform into something restaurant-worthy in under 30 minutes. Creamy, bright, and satisfying, Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how these simple, everyday ingredients team up to create such bold flavors and dreamy textures. Each item here plays its part to bring Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach to life. Let’s break down what you’ll need—and why every piece matters.
- Pasta: Choose spaghetti or linguine to capture the creamy ricotta sauce beautifully in every forkful.
- Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta delivers that coveted creamy texture—don’t swap it for low-fat if you want the full experience.
- Olive Oil: A few tablespoons give your sauce depth and help gently cook the garlic and spinach.
- Garlic: Minced fresh, it infuses the oil with a savory aroma that kicks off the dish on the perfect note.
- Baby Spinach: Adds a pop of color and freshness, wilting quickly into the sauce for a veggie boost.
- Lemon Zest: Don’t skip this—it’s the secret to truly lemony flavor without any tartness.
- Lemon Juice: For that bright, tangy finish that balances the richness of the ricotta.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds both saltiness and umami, helping to marry all the flavors.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Balances and sharpens the flavors—taste as you go!
- Reserved Pasta Water: Use just a splash to help the creamy sauce cling to every swirl of pasta.
How to Make Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is key—it flavors the pasta itself, and that flavor carries straight into the final dish. Cook the spaghetti or linguine until al dente, stirring occasionally to keep it from clumping.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
While the pasta simmers away, pour the olive oil into a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle, stirring for just about 1-2 minutes until aromatic but not browned. Toss in your baby spinach next, cooking until it’s just wilted and a vibrant green, about 2-3 minutes—it shrinks fast, so keep an eye on it!
Step 3: Mix Up the Ricotta Lemon Sauce
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your whole milk ricotta, fresh lemon zest, zippy lemon juice, and half a cup of finely grated Parmesan. Stir it all together until you have a smooth, creamy base just waiting for pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Ricotta Mixture
Once your pasta is ready, remember to scoop out at least a quarter cup of the starchy cooking water before draining. Add the steaming hot pasta right into the ricotta mixture. The heat melts everything together—use tongs or two big forks to toss until each strand is silky and coated.
Step 5: Add the Spinach and Adjust the Sauce
Pour in the sautéed spinach and garlic, making sure to scrape in any fragrant oil left in the skillet. Give everything a good toss. If the sauce seems too thick, drizzle in some reserved pasta water, a spoonful at a time, until creamy perfection is achieved.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finish with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting as you go—it makes all the difference. Serve your Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach right away, and get ready to dazzle your taste buds!
How to Serve Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach
Garnishes
Top your bowl with extra lemon zest for brightness, a grating of Parmesan for savoriness, and a few turns of cracked black pepper for a little bite. If you love heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick that pairs perfectly with the lemon and ricotta.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or serve garlic bread for extra comfort. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans also make vibrant companions for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving in shallow bowls topped with a twist of lemon peel and fresh basil leaves for a gourmet touch. Or portion into small ramekins for a dinner party starter. For an extra special twist, top each serving with grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or a scoop of seasoned chickpeas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any remaining Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days, perfect for a speedy lunch or second dinner.
Freezing
While ricotta-based sauces are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. The texture might change a bit on thawing, but a good stir when reheating helps bring back some of the creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to your leftovers and warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring constantly until just heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long at high power—gentle reheating keeps the sauce silky and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but long noodles like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are ideal for clinging to that lemony ricotta sauce. Even short shapes like penne or rigatoni will do the trick if that’s what you have.
Is there a vegan version of Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach?
For a vegan twist, use your favorite plant-based ricotta and Parmesan alternatives, and double-check your pasta ingredients. The process is exactly the same, and you’ll still get tons of creamy, bright flavor.
Can I add extra protein?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or chickpeas are all delicious options. Just toss your chosen protein on top before serving for a more filling meal without losing the vibrant flavor profile.
Does this recipe work with frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach can be substituted if fresh isn’t available. Thaw it and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before cooking, then add it to the skillet just as you would with fresh spinach.
How do I make the sauce creamier?
If you love an extra-luxurious sauce, add another spoonful of ricotta or a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your dream creaminess. The key is to toss vigorously so every bite is coated and dreamy.
Final Thoughts
Let yourself fall in love with the simplicity and sunshine-bright flavor of Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach. It’s quick, nourishing, and guaranteed to put a big smile on your face. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!
Print
Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this delightful and simple recipe for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach. Creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and zesty lemon come together to create a flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic, add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Mix the Ricotta Sauce: Combine ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan in a bowl.
- Combine: Toss drained pasta with ricotta mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Finish: Add spinach and garlic, adjust consistency with pasta water, season, and serve.
Notes
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- For extra protein, top with grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
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