Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving something fresh, creamy, and downright comforting all at once, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. Lightly zesty with the brightness of lemon, silky ricotta for richness, and just the right amount of garlic kick, this pasta is a fan-freaking-tastic quick dinner that never disappoints. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe plays an important part in building the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory. When you shop, look for fresh lemons and a good-quality ricotta for the best flavor.

• Spaghetti (or pasta of choice): I love spaghetti here, but feel free to use any long pasta like linguine or bucatini – just make sure it cooks al dente for the best texture.
• Whole-milk ricotta: This makes the sauce luxuriously creamy; avoid low-fat versions since they don’t blend as smoothly.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds sharp umami notes—skip the pre-grated stuff if you can for better melt.
• Olive oil: Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness and a hint of fruitiness.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic gives just the right aromatic kick without overpowering the lemon.
• Lemon (zest and juice): The star of the show! Make sure to zest before juicing for maximum brightness.
• Salt: Essential to season both pasta water and the sauce; it brings out all the flavors.
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds warmth and a little bite.
• Crushed red pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the lemon beautifully—optional if you prefer it mild.
• Baby spinach: I love how it wilts gently into the sauce, giving a fresh veggie boost without extra fuss.

Variations

I often tweak this Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe based on what’s in my fridge and what my family’s craving. The flexible nature of this recipe makes it easy to personalize.

• Add Protein: Sometimes I toss in grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal that my husband really loves.
• Swap the Greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach, baby arugula or kale work beautifully too for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Make it Vegan: Use vegan ricotta and Parmesan alternatives, and you’re all set for a dairy-free dinner.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, double the crushed red pepper or add a pinch of cayenne—I guarantee a tasty kick.

How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Al Dente Perfection

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil — I always add a generous pinch of salt to really flavor the pasta. Cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions for al dente, so it has a slight bite and won’t get mushy when you toss it with the sauce. Before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking water; this starchy water is magic for thinning out sauces. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot, keeping it covered to stay warm while you make your sauce.

Step 2: Blend the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Sauce

Into a high-speed blender, blend together ricotta, freshly grated Parmesan, olive oil, garlic cloves, lemon zest and juice, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. I like to blend for a full 1-2 minutes to get it incredibly smooth and velvety – this makes all the difference in the sauce texture. You’ll notice the garlic becomes mellow but still bright, and the lemon flavors really pop.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Spinach

Return the pot with pasta to low heat and add the ricotta sauce along with about half a cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss in the baby spinach and gently stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the pasta absorbs some of the sauce. Keep adding pasta water a little at a time if you’d like the sauce thinner or silkier – it’s all about finding your perfect comfort creamy consistency here.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Dish out your luscious Lemon Ricotta Pasta onto plates and sprinkle extra fresh Parmesan over the top for a little salty richness. I love to add an extra twist of black pepper as well to wake it all up. Grab a fork and dive in — this pasta is so bright, creamy, and fresh, it feels like a little celebration in every bite.

How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this pasta with freshly cracked black pepper and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Occasionally, I’ll throw on some toasted pine nuts or fresh basil leaves for a delightful crunch and herby freshness that pairs beautifully with the lemon ricotta sauce.

Side Dishes

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta shines as a main event but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to add variety and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate this pasta twirled into nest-like mounds and garnish with thin lemon slices and edible flowers when I can find them — it feels super elevated yet effortlessly pretty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Because the sauce is fresh with lemon and ricotta, it’s best enjoyed within that time frame to keep the flavors bright and the texture creamy.

Freezing

From my experience, I don’t recommend freezing this Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe since the ricotta sauce can separate and become watery after thawing. It’s much better fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Reheating

When reheating, I gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or more olive oil to revive the creamy sauce without drying it out. Avoid microwave reheating alone to keep the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe has become one of my absolute go-to dishes whenever I need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort. It’s fresh enough to feel light but creamy enough to soothe those carb cravings. I genuinely believe you’ll enjoy making and eating it as much as I do — and once it becomes one of your favorites, don’t be surprised when your family starts asking for it over and over!

Print