Name: EASY LEMON RICOTTA PASTA & SPINACH
Prep time: 13 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, fusilli...); 1 cup whole-milk ricotta (9oz/250 grams); 8 oz fresh baby spinach (washed); 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra to serve); 1 unwaxed lemon (zest and juice); 3 lemon wedges (to serve (optional)); 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling); 1 clove garlic (grated or pressed); salt (to taste); black pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Cooking after a long day can feel like a chore, but that’s where easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach comes in to save the day! This delightful dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to whip up, making it the ideal weeknight meal. In just about 15 minutes, you can be enjoying a plate full of creamy ricotta combined with the fresh zest of lemon and the vibrant green of spinach.

Why choose this recipe? For starters, it embraces simplicity without sacrificing flavor. The use of fresh ingredients, like whole-milk ricotta and baby spinach, ensures a nutritious meal that packs a punch of taste. Pasta lovers, rejoice! Whether you prefer spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, this recipe allows you to use your favorite pasta shape.

Plus, cooking with lemon isn’t just refreshing; it also adds a bright, tangy flavor that awakens the palate, making this dish feel both light and fulfilling. And if you’re looking for a quick meal to wow your friends or just treat yourself after a busy day, this is it! Why not give it a try and elevate your weeknight dining experience?

For tips on pasta selection and more recipes, check out Bon Appétit's pasta guide.

Ingredients for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Fresh Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this delightful easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach dish requires just a handful of fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this light and zesty meal:

Pasta: Start with ½ lb (8oz/220 grams) of your favorite pasta, like spaghetti, linguine, or penne. Each shape brings its unique texture to the dish!
Ricotta Cheese: You’ll need 1 cup (9oz/250 grams) of whole-milk ricotta — it’s creamy and absolutely essential for that luscious sauce.
Fresh Spinach: Grab 8 oz (230 grams) of fresh baby spinach, washed and ready to go.
Parmesan Cheese: ⅓ cup (35 grams), plus some extra for garnishing.
Lemon: An unwaxed lemon for both zest and juice, ensuring you get that fresh, zingy flavor we all love.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon of high-quality extra virgin for richness.
Garlic: Just 1 clove, grated or pressed, to enhance the taste.
Seasoning: Don't forget salt and black pepper to bring the flavors together.

These ingredients are not only simple but also come together beautifully, making dinner stress-free and delicious. You can usually find everything at your local grocery store or even consider visiting a farmers' market for the freshest produce!

Preparing Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

When you're short on time but craving something delicious, this easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach dish is your go-to solution. With simple ingredients and a burst of zest, you'll have a delightful meal ready in just a pinch. Let’s break down the steps for a seamless cooking experience.

Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This is crucial because it helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. You can use any type of pasta, like spaghetti, linguine, or penne; the choice is yours! Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente stage, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking. Your kitchen will already start smelling fantastic!

Make the Creamy Ricotta Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, let's whip up the creamy ricotta sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of whole-milk ricotta, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, ⅓ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, one grated garlic clove, and the zest and juice of an unwaxed lemon. Season it with a touch of salt (about ¼ teaspoon) and a generous pinch of black pepper. Use a fork to blend everything until smooth and creamy. Take a moment to taste it—this is your time to adjust the seasoning if needed.

Add Spinach During the Final Cooking Minutes

In the last minute of cooking, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water (you'll use this to adjust the sauce later) and toss 8 oz of fresh spinach into the pot with your pasta. Give it a good stir to submerge the leaves, letting them wilt in the hot water. This is a perfect time-saver! You get perfectly cooked pasta and vibrant, tender spinach all in one go.

Combine Pasta with the Sauce

After draining the pasta and spinach, return them to the same pot. Add your creamy ricotta sauce and just enough of the reserved pasta water to achieve a smooth consistency. Stir well to ensure every strand is coated in that luscious sauce. The key is to add the pasta water gradually, so you don’t lose that rich flavor.

Serve and Garnish

Finally, serve your easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach immediately. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of grated or shaved Parmesan, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and a few lemon wedges on the side. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes on top. Voilà! You have a gorgeous, delicious meal that tastes like a culinary masterpiece.

Enjoy this light, zesty dish any night of the week—it’s sure to impress! For more pasta inspirations, check out this article.

Variations on Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

This easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a couple of delightful variations to suit your taste.

Adding Protein: Chicken or Turkey Bacon

For some added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or a bit of turkey bacon. Simply cook the protein separately, slice it, and toss it in right before serving. This not only enhances the dish's nutrition but also adds a savory depth to the creamy, zesty sauce. If you’re looking for inspiration on cooking chicken, check out this chicken cooking guide.

Making it Vegan: Alternatives to Ricotta

Want to keep things plant-based? Substituting the ricotta is simple! You can use nut-based cheeses or blended tofu with nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. This ensures you can indulge in a luscious sauce that mimics the original while adhering to your dietary preferences. For great vegan options, explore this vegan cream cheese recipe.

With these variations, your easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach can be tailored to any dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

Achieving the ideal creamy texture for your easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach is all about adding the right amount of pasta water. Start by reserving half a cup as suggested, then incorporate it gradually into your ricotta sauce. You want just enough to create a silky consistency without drowning the flavor. If you find it still too thick, a splash of milk works wonders!

Choosing the Right Pasta

While traditional spaghetti is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other types like penne or fusilli. Just make sure they can hold that luscious ricotta! Remember, each shape captures the sauce differently, so pick one that excites your palate. For expert insights, check out this pasta guide.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Complementing with a Fresh Salad

To elevate your easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach, serve it alongside a crisp, fresh salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the creaminess of the pasta. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumbers for added texture and flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of toasted nuts for a delightful crunch!

Best Side Dishes to Pair

For a heartier meal, consider pairing your pasta with roasted vegetables or seasoned grilled chicken. Roasting some seasonal veggies, like asparagus or zucchini, brings out their natural sweetness and is an effortless way to add nutrition. Alternatively, crispy turkey bacon or chicken ham can add a savory touch without overshadowing the dish. For a unique twist, serve garlic bread on the side to soak up any leftover sauce. Enjoy!

Looking for more salad ideas? Check out this guide to fresh salads that will pair excellently with your pasta dish.

Time Breakdown for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Get started by gathering your ingredients and measuring everything out. It’s all about hassle-free cooking, right?

Cooking time: 10 minutes
While your pasta is boiling, whip up the creamy ricotta sauce and sauté the spinach. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal!

Total time: 15 minutes
That’s right! From prep to plate in just 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. Enjoy!

For more delicious pasta ideas, check out The Pasta Project or Serious Eats.

Nutritional Facts for Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

When whipping up your easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach, it's great to know the nutritional breakdown to fuel your busy lifestyle.

Calories

This scrumptious dish comes in at approximately 538 calories per serving, making it a satisfying meal without the guilt.

Protein

Packed with 26g of protein, thanks to the ricotta and parmesan, this pasta dish is perfect for maintaining energy levels during your day.

Fiber

With 5g of fiber from the spinach and pasta, you'll find this meal not only tasty but also beneficial for digestion.

By enjoying this delightful recipe, you're not just indulging in flavor; you're also making a smart nutritional choice! For more on healthy eating, check out healthline.com for extensive insights.

FAQ about Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While this easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach recipe highlights ricotta for its creamy texture, feel free to explore other cheeses. Mascarpone or cream cheese can add a nice richness, while goat cheese provides a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so choose a cheese that complements your palate.

How can I make this pasta dish gluten-free?

Transforming this dish into a gluten-free option is simple! Just swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties made from rice or quinoa. Brands like Barilla or Banza offer great alternatives that work wonderfully in this recipe. Ensure you check the label for other potential sources of gluten in any added ingredients.

What can I substitute for fresh spinach?

If fresh spinach isn’t on hand, no worries! You can substitute it with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard. Both options will bring unique flavors while still delivering a nutritious boost. Just make sure to sauté them briefly if they are tougher than spinach to ensure they’re tender.

Conclusion on Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach. Perfect for busy weeknights, its creamy texture and zesty flavor make it a family favorite. Don't hesitate to customize this dish—add your favorite veggies or protein for a satisfying meal!