Description
Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy ricotta with zesty lemon for a burst of flavor in every bite. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether served as a main course or paired with grilled chicken or fresh veggies, this pasta dish promises to impress with its vibrant taste and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 2 fresh lemons (zest and juice)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add ricotta and lemon juice, stirring until creamy.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For a twist, substitute ricotta with goat cheese or add sautéed spinach for extra nutrients. Use nutmeg for added flavor depth.