Description
Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is a fresh and flavorful delight that combines creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and a zing from zesty lemon. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or impressing guests, this nutritious dish is both simple and sophisticated.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (any type)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well until creamy and smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Once the spinach is wilted, add the drained pasta and the ricotta mixture to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed until you reach your desired creaminess. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil.
- This dish can be paired with a simple green salad or topped with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
- For a vegan version, substitute ricotta with plant-based alternatives and use vegan Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 20mg