Description
Silky creamy lemon ricotta pasta delivers Mediterranean sunshine on a plate, dancing with zesty brightness and smooth cheese comfort. Delicate pasta strands wrapped in luxurious sauce promise a quick, elegant dinner that whisks you straight to an Italian kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Cheese:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquid and Citrus:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water at a rolling boil until perfectly tender, approximately 8-10 minutes. Carefully extract ¼ cup of starchy cooking liquid before draining.
- Craft a luxurious sauce by whisking ricotta, grated parmesan, fragrant lemon zest, bright lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and zesty red pepper flakes in a spacious mixing vessel.
- Transfer piping hot pasta directly into the creamy sauce, gently folding and coating each strand with the vibrant mixture. Gradually introduce reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, glossy consistency that clings beautifully to the noodles.
- Allow the residual heat to meld flavors for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the sauce embraces every curve of the pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired for a perfectly balanced dish.
- Serve immediately while warm, garnishing with additional parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra flavor punch. Optional: Finish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley for added brightness.
Notes
- Swap whole milk ricotta for low-fat versions to reduce calories without compromising creamy texture.
- Enhance protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe celiac-friendly and suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Balance lemon’s brightness by adjusting citrus quantity based on personal taste preferences, ensuring a perfectly tangy yet not overpowering flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg