Description
A light, creamy, and zesty pasta dish made with ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and bright lemon for a refreshing yet comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice until creamy.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with spinach. Stir in ricotta mixture and toss to coat.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired creaminess is reached.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water—it helps make the sauce creamy and silky.
- Use whole-milk ricotta for the best texture and flavor.
- For added protein, toss in grilled chicken or shrimp.
- You can substitute kale or arugula for spinach if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian