Simple Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Whipping up this lemon ricotta pasta is like creating a culinary symphony, where the creamy ricotta mingles effortlessly with the bright, zesty notes of lemon to create an irresistibly fresh dish. As I toss the pasta with the velvety sauce and sprinkle it generously with basil, I’m reminded that sometimes the simplest ingredients can lead to the most satisfying meals.

This Simple Lemon Ricotta Pasta packs in the flavor for such a quick meal! I mean, no one supper should shimmer with such, right?

The ricotta, like fresh cheese, is much easier to work with than an aged cheese. It’s lighter yet still creamy and very satisfying, especially when you add some fresh lemon zest and juice.

Then there’s this Parmesan that I’ve never met a cheese that can take its place. Its nutty richness truly rounds this dish.

And with a good glug of olive oil—okay, maybe two—it’s the smoothest pasta that you’ll eat.

Simple Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe Ingredients

• Lemon Zest: Adds a tangy, aromatic flavor; high in vitamin C.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy texture; provides protein and calcium.
• Parmesan Cheese: Intensifies umami; rich in calcium and protein.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats; adds smooth richness to the dish.
• Pasta: Provides carbohydrates; serves as a satisfying base.

Simple Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 12 ounces of pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• Zest of 2 lemons
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make this Simple Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe

1. Put a large pot of salted water on to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Save 1/4 cup of the pasta water. Drain the rest.

2. In a big mixing bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, the grated lemon zest, and the lemon juice. Add in the grated Parmesan. Lightly mix in salt and black pepper.

3. Gradually add the olive oil while whisking the ricotta mixture into the smooth and creamy consistency of a sauce.

4. Slowly incorporate the saved pasta cooking water into the ricotta mixture, pouring it in bit by bit, and whisking all the while, until you have a sauce that is just as thick or as thin as you like.

5. In the bowl with the ricotta sauce, add the hot, drained pasta. Toss until the pasta is coated throughout.

6. If necessary, adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste.

7. Move the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates.

8. Finish off with some color and flavor by garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley.

9. If desired, sprinkle more grated Parmesan on top.

10. Enjoy your simple lemon ricotta pasta! Serve immediately.

Simple Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Mixing bowl
3. Whisk
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Grater (for lemon zest and Parmesan)
7. Colander or strainer
8. Tongs or pasta fork
9. Serving dish or plates

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of pasta?Certainly, you can replace the pasta with your preferred variety, be it penne or linguine.
• Is there an alternative to ricotta cheese?If you lack ricotta, cottage cheese can serve as a suitable substitute, though the texture will vary somewhat.
• How do I zest a lemon?Grate the yellow outer layer of the lemon very finely, using a microplane grater or a zester. Avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
• Can I make this dish vegan?To convert this into a vegan dish, you need to switch out the ricotta and Parmesan for dairy-free versions, and make sure your pasta is free of eggs.
• How should I store leftovers?Put any remaining food into a container that seals tightly and into the fridge it goes, for a maximum of 2 days. After that, it must be reheated on the stove, and only with a splash of water, to keep it from burning.
• What can I use as a garnish?Bright, fresh basil or parsley adds color, freshness, and a burst of flavor to dishes. Other herbs like thyme or oregano work well too.

Simple Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Substitute with cottage cheese for a similar creaminess, or with cream cheese for a richer texture.
Lime zest: Use lemon zest for a different citrus flavor.
Parmesan cheese, grated: For a sharper flavor, substitute with Pecorino Romano.
Olive oil can be replaced with melted butter or avocado oil for a fat profile that is completely different.
Basil or parsley: Use fresh arugula or baby spinach to achieve a different herbaceous flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Pasta Water Magic: Use a bit more pasta water than indicated if you want an extra silky sauce. The starches in the water can help bind the sauce to the pasta for a richer texture.