Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

This Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach is a delightful dish that brings together bright flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is both quick and easy to make. The combination of fresh spinach and zesty lemon in a creamy ricotta sauce creates a satisfying meal ready in just 15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy evenings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using whole-milk ricotta and fresh spinach enhances the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or even as a light lunch; it fits any meal occasion.
• Light and Zesty: The lemon adds a refreshing twist, making this pasta feel light yet satisfying.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pot cooking means less time washing dishes after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment ready will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium bowl
• Grater or press
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or pasta fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta evenly while providing enough space to add spinach at the end.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing the creamy ricotta sauce without splattering.
• Grater or press: Ensures garlic is finely minced or grated, releasing maximum flavor into your sauce.

Ingredients

This light and zesty lemon ricotta pasta with spinach makes a delish weeknight meal ready in less than 15 minutes. Simple, fresh ingredients, delicious flavor, and minimal effort.

For the Pasta

• 1/2 lb (8oz/220 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, fusilli…)

For the Ricotta Sauce

• 1 cup (9oz/250 grams) whole-milk ricotta
• 1/3 cup (35 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve

For Flavoring

• 1 unwaxed lemon, zest and juice
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 garlic clove, grated or pressed

For the Greens

• 8 oz (230 grams) fresh baby spinach, washed

For Seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

• 3 lemon wedges (optional)

How to Make Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Meanwhile, prepare the ricotta sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
2. Season with 1/4 tsp of salt and a pinch of black pepper.
3. Stir until well combined and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Add Spinach to Pasta

In the last minute of the pasta’s cooking time:
1. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water.
2. Add spinach to the pot.
3. Stir well to push leaves down into boiling water.

Step 4: Drain Pasta and Spinach

After one minute:
1. Drain the pasta and spinach mixture.
2. Return them back to the same pot.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Add:
1. The prepared ricotta sauce.
2. Part of the reserved cooking water.
3. Stir well until the pasta is evenly coated in sauce; add more water if necessary for creaminess.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Serve immediately:
– Garnish with grated or shaved Parmesan cheese,
– Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil,
– Add lemon wedges if desired for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach!

How to Serve Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

Serving lemon ricotta pasta with spinach can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and can be complemented in various delightful ways.

Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Grilled Chicken

• Protein Boost: Add sliced grilled chicken for extra protein and a heartier meal.

Toasted Pine Nuts

• Crunchy Texture: Toss in some toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Lemon Zest

• Extra Zing: Garnish with additional lemon zest to enhance the citrus flavor.

Chili Flakes

• Spicy Kick: A sprinkle of chili flakes adds heat and balances the creaminess of the ricotta.

Garlic Bread

• Perfect Pairing: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Perfect Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your lemon ricotta pasta with spinach, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and quality ricotta for a brighter taste.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to maintain a nice bite and hold up against the sauce.

• Adjust Consistency: Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency; it should be creamy but not too thick.

• Season Well: Don’t skip on seasoning; tasting as you go ensures balanced flavors throughout the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

Pairing side dishes with lemon ricotta pasta enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction make a refreshing side.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate.

3. Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the pasta’s flavors beautifully.

4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil is always a crowd-pleaser.

5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings a touch of elegance alongside your main dish.

6. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, olives, and cheeses creates a delightful starter before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing lemon ricotta pasta & spinach, there are some common pitfalls to be aware of.

• Using low-quality pasta: Choosing a lesser-quality pasta can affect the dish’s overall taste and texture. Opt for high-quality pasta for the best results.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long will make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente.

• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your ricotta sauce properly can lead to bland pasta. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.

• Not reserving enough cooking water: Forgetting to set aside pasta water may leave you with a dry dish. Reserve at least 1/2 cup of the starchy water for the sauce.

• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using stale or frozen spinach instead of fresh can compromise flavor. Always choose fresh baby spinach for this recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover lemon ricotta pasta & spinach in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

• Place the pasta in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
• It will last up to 2 months in the freezer, but the texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Add a splash of olive oil or reserved cooking water to a skillet over medium heat. Stir until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about lemon ricotta pasta & spinach that might help clarify this delicious recipe.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Yes! You can substitute kale, arugula, or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile while still enjoying a nutritious meal.

How can I customize lemon ricotta pasta & spinach?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or seasonal veggies like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

What type of cheese works well with lemon ricotta pasta & spinach?

While Parmesan is traditional, you can also try pecorino Romano or even feta for a tangy twist.

Is lemon ricotta pasta & spinach suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the ricotta with cashew cream or tofu blended with nutritional yeast and omit cheese altogether.

Final Thoughts

Lemon ricotta pasta & spinach is an ideal light meal that offers delightful flavors and quick preparation. With its creamy texture and zesty notes, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables!