Lemon ricotta pasta is a creamy, light, and fresh dish that is perfect for a quick meal. It combines the smooth texture of ricotta cheese with the bright, tangy taste of lemon, making every bite refreshing and satisfying. This recipe is simple, requiring only a few ingredients, and comes together in less than 30 minutes.
The pasta absorbs the rich, zesty sauce, creating a delicious balance of flavors. It’s a great meal for busy days when you want something easy yet flavorful. Whether served on its own or with added protein, this dish is a perfect choice for any occasion.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it is simple, quick, and packed with flavor. The ricotta cheese makes the sauce creamy without feeling too heavy, while the lemon adds a refreshing contrast. The garlic and olive oil enhance the taste, and a bit of reserved pasta water helps create a smooth and silky sauce. Unlike heavy cream-based sauces, this one is lighter and healthier, making it a great choice for a satisfying but not overly rich meal.
You should make this recipe because it’s easy to customize and pairs well with different sides and proteins. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor. The dish is also budget-friendly and requires minimal cooking effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a weekend dinner, lemon ricotta pasta is a simple yet elegant choice!
Ingredients
Pasta – The base of the dish, giving it a soft and chewy texture. You can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne for this recipe.
Ricotta Cheese – Makes the sauce creamy and smooth. You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone as a substitute.
Lemon – Adds a fresh, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. You need both the juice and zest for the best taste.
Garlic – Brings a mild, savory flavor to the sauce. You can use garlic powder if fresh garlic is not available.
Olive Oil – Helps blend the flavors and adds a rich, slightly fruity taste. You can use butter for a richer version.
Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to mix into the sauce for a smoother texture.
- Don’t overheat ricotta cheese, as it can become grainy.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra freshness.
How to Serve
Lemon ricotta pasta is a light, creamy, and refreshing dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. The ricotta sauce makes it rich, while the lemon adds a bright and zesty flavor, creating a perfect balance. This dish pairs well with simple sides and can be served hot or at room temperature.
- With Grilled Chicken – Add sliced grilled chicken on top for extra protein.
- With a Side Salad – Serve with a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- With Roasted Vegetables – Pair with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added texture.
Similar Recipes
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water as needed
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a pan over low heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan and mix in the ricotta sauce, stirring gently.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until creamy.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
• Reserve some pasta water to mix into the sauce for a smoother texture.
• Don’t overheat ricotta cheese, as it can become grainy.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra freshness.