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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

A quick and easy pasta dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese with fresh lemon zest and garlic for a burst of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients
  • 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or penne) Choose your favorite! Whole grain pasta works too for a heartier bite.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil A splash of this liquid gold helps in sautéing and adds a luscious flavor to our sauce.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic brings a warm aroma and savory depth that’s simply irresistible.
Creamy Mixture
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Provides a rich texture and lightness.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a cheesy kiss that melds beautifully with the ricotta.
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced The superstar! Its brightness will wake up your taste buds.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Just enough to balance flavors and enhance every bite!
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper A subtle kick that rounds out the zestiness of the lemon.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Adds freshness and a delightful pop of green.
  • 1/4 cup pasta water Helps bind everything together and creates a silky sauce.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining the pasta.
Making the Sauce
  1. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté minced garlic in the skillet until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add ricotta cheese to the skillet and mix until well combined.
  4. Gradually mix in grated Parmesan until smooth.
  5. Add lemon zest and juice to the ricotta mixture and stir until combined.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing to coat with the sauce.
  2. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached.
  3. Stir in chopped basil and serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor, don’t skimp on the lemon; it brightens everything up. Always reserve pasta water; it’s liquid gold for your sauce!