Description
This Lemon Ricotta Pasta recipe is a creamy, bright, and flavorful dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. The combination of tangy lemon, smooth ricotta, and savory Parmesan creates a luscious sauce that’s perfectly complemented by sautéed garlic and al dente pasta. It’s an easy, satisfying meal ideal for weeknights or quick dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or preferred shape)
Sauce
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Make Ricotta Sauce: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil, then add the ricotta lemon mixture. Toss the pasta gently to evenly coat it with the sauce.
- Loosen the Sauce: Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring constantly until the sauce reaches the desired creamy consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, additional lemon zest, and fresh herbs if desired. Serve the dish warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture; part-skim will be less rich.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly—add slowly to avoid thinning too much.
- Fresh lemon zest adds brightness; avoid using dried zest.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its best texture.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor optional.
