Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach
Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is a light and flavorful dish that encapsulates the essence of comfort food with an elegant twist. Imagine twirling strands of fresh pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with creamy ricotta infused with the zesty brightness of lemon. The luscious sauce clings to the pasta, while vibrant spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, making every mouthful not just a taste experience but an inviting hug in a bowl. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also brings a delightful culinary nostalgia that appeals to both adults and children alike. Whether you’re seeking a weeknight dinner or a dish that impresses during family gatherings, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is a must-try!
Are You Ready to Elevate Your Pasta Night?
Have you ever wished for a way to transform a simple bowl of pasta into a crave-worthy indulgence that leaves you wishing for seconds?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best aspects of this Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is its unbeatable ease of preparation. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible even for novice cooks. It’s loaded with nutrients, thanks to the fresh spinach, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages—ensuring that not even the pickiest eaters will turn their noses up at this delicious plate.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb pasta (choose your favorite type for a personal touch)
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta (creamy and dreamy)
- 8 oz fresh baby spinach (vibrant green goodness)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra to serve (a nutty kick of flavor)
- 1 unwaxed lemon (zest and juice for a citrus burst)
- 3 lemon wedges (to serve, optional but refreshing)
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus extra for drizzling (rich and fruity)
- 1 garlic clove (grated or pressed, aromatic elegance)
- Salt and black pepper to taste (to elevate the flavors)
When shopping for ingredients, opt for the freshest spinach and ricotta to maximize flavor. The lemon adds not just zest, but a cheerful brightness that lifts the entire dish!
Timing
In a world where time is fleeting, Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach stands out as a delightful option that marries fast indulgence with elegant flavor. With just 20 minutes of actual cooking time, you can whip up this lush meal that feels both indulgent and light. It suits both the need for a quick dinner and the desire for a luxurious culinary experience, making it perfect for any occasion.
Step-by-Step
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your pasta until al dente, an essential step to ensure a perfect texture.
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Make the Ricotta Sauce: While the pasta is bubbling, combine the ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, and the invigorating zest and juice of your unwaxed lemon in a medium bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper, stirring until you achieve a creamy blend that promises to be rich and flavorful.
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Add Spinach: In the last minute of cooking the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water and then add the fresh spinach leaves. Stir well, ensuring you push the leaves down to submerge and wilt perfectly in the hot water.
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Combine: After a minute, drain the pasta and spinach, then return them to the pot. Add the velvety ricotta sauce along with your reserved cooking water, and stir energetically to combine. Adjust the texture with more water for that dripping, gooey delight you crave.
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Serve: Finally, dish it out immediately, garnishing with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Add a lemon wedge for that perfect citrus kick, and indulge in this culinary dream!
Nutritional Information
One serving of this Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is approximately 400 calories, providing a gratifying balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Enjoying a comforting yet nourishing dish like this can certainly satisfy your cravings without the guilt!
Healthier Alternatives
For those looking to cut down on calories or adapt to dietary restrictions, there are several delicious options:
- Substitute whole-milk ricotta with a low-fat or dairy-free version to reduce fat content.
- Replace traditional pasta with whole-grain or legume-based pasta for heartier nutrition.
- Consider using spiralized vegetables, such as zucchini, as a noodle alternative for a light and fresh dish.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach isn’t just for casual weeknight dinners. It holds its place beautifully on a festive holiday table alongside glazed meats or even as a side dish to grilled seafood. And let’s be honest—wouldn’t it taste divine paired with a scoop of lemon sorbet for a refreshing dessert?
Common Mistakes
To avoid common pitfalls while creating your Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach, keep these tips in mind:
- Overcooking Pasta: Ensure that you keep your pasta al dente for the right texture.
- Wrong Ricotta Consistency: Don’t skimp on the richness of the ricotta—you want it creamy but not watery.
- Lemon Zest: Avoid skipping the zest; it’s crucial for that bright flavor profile.
Storing Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to best store your Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Freeze Portions: For longer storage, portion out servings and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water for creamy consistency.
Tempted to Create This Deliciousness ASAP?
Don’t let the opportunity slip to experience the sublime union of flavors in Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this dish promises satisfaction and joy with every forkful. Go ahead and treat yourself—your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
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Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta, whether it’s penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. -
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This delightful meal can be ready in about 20 minutes, perfect for a quick weekday dinner. -
What can I replace ricotta with?
For a dairy-free option, consider using tofu or cashew cream blended until smooth, or opt for Greek yogurt. -
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy texture and delightful flavors make it a hit with children and adults alike. -
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would make excellent additions to boost the protein content.
Indulge in this delightful Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach today, and let the flavors take you on a joyful culinary journey!
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Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and flavorful pasta dish featuring creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach, infused with the zesty brightness of lemon.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb pasta (your favorite type)
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta
- 8 oz fresh baby spinach
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra to serve
- 1 unwaxed lemon (zest and juice)
- 3 lemon wedges (for serving)
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus extra for drizzling
- 1 garlic clove (grated or pressed)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your pasta until al dente.
- Make the Ricotta Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, and the zest and juice of the lemon. Season with salt and pepper, stirring until creamy.
- Add Spinach: In the last minute of cooking the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water and add the spinach leaves to wilt.
- Combine: Drain the pasta and spinach, return to the pot, and add the ricotta sauce and reserved cooking water. Stir to combine, adjusting texture as needed.
- Serve: Dish out immediately, garnishing with Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, adding lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, use low-fat ricotta or substitute with dairy-free alternatives. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days or freeze for longer preservation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
