Fresh Spring Lemon Ricotta Pasta
A delightful pasta dish that combines the freshness of lemon and creamy ricotta, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine Choose your favorite pasta type.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese Approximately 250g.
- 2 units fresh lemons Zested and juiced.
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Use good quality for best flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic Minced.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Approximately 50g.
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley Chopped.
- Salt and black pepper To taste.
- Red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
- Toasted pine nuts or walnuts Optional for crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients. Measure the spaghetti or linguine, ricotta cheese, and prepare the garlic and lemon by zesting and juicing them.
Cooking Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Making Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, whisk together the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
Adjusting Sauce
- After draining the pasta, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to the ricotta mixture to loosen the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the drained pasta to the bowl with the creamy ricotta sauce. Toss gently with tongs, adding more reserved pasta water as necessary until the pasta is evenly coated.
Final Touches
- Fold in the freshly chopped basil or parsley. If desired, add red pepper flakes.
- Transfer the pasta to a serving plate or bowl and top with more grated Parmesan and basil. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving.
Serving
- Serve immediately, while warm and creamy.
Notes
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding pasta water to restore creaminess.