The moment you take a bite of the Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta, your taste buds will explode with a symphony of creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and perfectly al dente pasta. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace that says, “Dinner is served!” It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like an Italian nonna, even if your cooking skills are still in training wheels mode. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips and techniques recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of pasta works best for lemon ricotta pasta?
- Can I make lemon ricotta pasta ahead of time?
- What are some great add-ins for this dish?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: a cozy evening with friends gathered around the table, laughter echoing as they dig into this delightful pasta. The vibrant yellow of the lemons and fresh herbs pops against the creamy sauce, making it as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. Whether it’s a regular weeknight or a special occasion, this dish promises to be the star of your dinner table, begging for seconds before anyone can say “mangia!”
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This simple yet elegant dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
- The balance of creamy and tangy flavors creates a mouthwatering experience
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dining table
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings
My friends couldn’t stop raving about this dish last summer when I whipped it up for our outdoor barbecue; let’s just say a few bowls were devoured faster than I could refill them.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes.
- Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Choose your favorite pasta shape; both soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Fresh Ricotta Cheese: Opt for high-quality ricotta for a creamy texture that elevates the dish.
- Fresh Lemons: Use juicy lemons for zest and juice; they bring brightness and flavor to every bite.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: A handful of basil adds an aromatic freshness that complements the lemon perfectly.
- Garlic Cloves: Sautéed garlic brings depth and warmth to the sauce; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor; it’s always worth it!
- Olive Oil: Good quality olive oil enhances the richness of the sauce and adds silkiness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors in the dish; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add your spaghetti or fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package instructions while stirring occasionally.
Sauté Garlic and Lemon Zest: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon zest for an aromatic kick.
Add Ricotta and Lemon Juice: Reduce heat to low and mix in ricotta cheese along with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir until well combined into a creamy sauce that coats your spatula smoothly.
Toss in Cooked Pasta: Drain your pasta but reserve some cooking water. Add drained pasta directly into the skillet with ricotta mixture. Toss everything together while adding reserved water gradually until reaching desired consistency.
Add Fresh Basil and Seasonings: Tear fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces before adding them into your pasta mix along with salt and pepper. Stir gently to ensure even distribution without breaking up too much ricotta.
Garnish with Parmesan Cheese: Serve immediately with generous shavings of Parmesan cheese on top along with extra basil leaves if desired. Enjoy this delightful dish while it’s warm!
This Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta will not only impress your taste buds but also have you dreaming about those sunny Italian summers filled with good food and great company. Bon Appétit!
You Must Know
- The best lemon ricotta pasta is creamy, tangy, and takes just 20 minutes to prepare
- This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
- With its fresh flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta in salted water. While it cooks, whip up the lemon ricotta sauce for a seamless dinner experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. You can also toss in some sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken to make it heartier.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use the freshest lemons for maximum flavor; the zest is key!
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed; sometimes more salt does wonders
- Don’t be shy about adding extra cheese—it’s pasta, after all!
I remember making this dish for my friends one summer evening. Their delighted faces made me realize I had struck culinary gold with this easy recipe.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for lemon ricotta pasta?
Use short pasta like penne or fusilli for better sauce adherence.
Can I make lemon ricotta pasta ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything except the sauce, then mix before serving for freshness.
What are some great add-ins for this dish?
Consider roasted vegetables, chicken, or shrimp for added protein and flavor.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a quick and delightful dish that combines creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and al dente pasta. Perfect for any occasion, it brings vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients together in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to favorite for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
- 2 large fresh lemons (zest and juice)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant; stir in lemon zest.
- Lower the heat and add ricotta and lemon juice, mixing until smooth.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the ricotta mixture, adding reserved cooking water gradually to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in torn basil leaves, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately topped with grated Parmesan and additional basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
