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Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Close-up of pasta being lifted by a fork from a bowl of Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach.
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A quick and satisfying pasta dish featuring a rich, creamy sauce made from ricotta cheese, brightened with fresh lemon juice and zest, and mixed with wilted spinach.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz pasta (e.g., linguine, spaghetti)
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 5 oz fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve at least 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce base. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant; do not let it brown.
  3. Reduce the heat to low. Add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir until just combined.
  4. Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add more pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. Add the fresh spinach to the sauce. Stir constantly until the spinach wilts completely, about 2 to 3 minutes. Season the sauce generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Add a drizzle of olive oil if desired for extra richness.
  7. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For the creamiest sauce, use whole milk ricotta cheese.
  • To add protein, toss in cooked shrimp or grilled chicken breast during the final mixing step.
  • If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the lemon juice slightly, tasting as you go.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorzine.com/creamy-lemon-ricotta-pasta-with-spinach/