The Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta – Pasta Recipes

If you’re looking for a quick, refreshing, and creamy pasta dish that screams comfort without being heavy, look no further than lemon ricotta pasta. This dish is a favorite among weeknight dinners thanks to its lightness, simplicity, and zesty flavor that brings sunshine to your plate.

In this article, you’ll discover exactly why lemon ricotta pasta deserves a permanent spot in your rotation, how to prepare it, and expert tips to make it restaurant-quality at home.

What Is Lemon Ricotta Pasta?

Lemon ricotta pasta is an Italian-inspired dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese, zesty lemon juice and zest, olive oil, and garlic with your favorite pasta. The best part? The sauce is no-cook, meaning you only have to boil the pasta.

This recipe balances the richness of ricotta with the brightness of lemon, offering a flavor that’s refreshing and not overly indulgent. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make.

By choosing the right pasta shape, you can enhance the creamy texture even more. If you’re unsure what shape works best for creamy sauces, check out BBC’s pasta shape guide for helpful suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not convinced yet? Here are just a few reasons this dish is a favorite:

• Ready in 15 minutes
• Requires only simple ingredients
• It’s vegetarian-friendly
• Pairs beautifully with salads or proteins
• Versatile and easy to customize
• Kid-approved and budget-friendly

Plus, it’s packed with calcium, protein, and healthy fats—if you’re wondering whether ricotta cheese is healthy, Healthline breaks it down here.

Ingredients Breakdown

To get the perfect balance of flavor and texture, here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta – Spaghetti, linguine, or penne work great.
• Ricotta cheese – Use whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture.
• Lemon – Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest are essential.
• Baby spinach – Adds color, texture, and nutritional value.
• Parmesan cheese – Enhances flavor with a nutty depth.
• Extra virgin olive oil – Use a good quality oil for best taste.
• Garlic – Freshly grated adds an aromatic punch.
• Salt & pepper – For seasoning to taste.

Optional Add-ins:

• Chili flakes
• Fresh basil or parsley
• Grilled chicken or smoked salmon

How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta – Step-by-Step

Here’s how to create this restaurant-worthy dish in just a few steps:

1. Cook your pasta in salted water until al dente.
2. Reserve pasta water before draining.
3. In a bowl, mix:
   • Ricotta cheese
   • Parmesan
   • Lemon zest and juice
   • Grated garlic
   • Olive oil
   • Salt and pepper
4. Stir until creamy and taste to adjust seasoning.
5. In the last minute of pasta cooking, add spinach to the pot.
6. Drain pasta and spinach, return to pot.
7. Add the ricotta mixture and some reserved pasta water.
8. Stir well until the sauce is creamy and coats all the pasta.

Top with more Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and optional lemon wedges.

Recipe Variations & Additions

Make it your own with these tasty variations:

Pro Cooking Tips

For best results, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t overcook the spinach – 1 minute is enough.
• Use whole milk ricotta for richness.
• Reserve pasta water – it makes the sauce creamy without adding cream.
• Adjust lemon juice to taste. Too much can overpower.

Storage and Reheating

Got leftovers? No problem.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Add a splash of milk or pasta water and warm on the stove or microwave.
• Do not freeze – Ricotta changes texture when frozen.

What to Serve With Lemon Ricotta Pasta

This dish pairs well with:

• Garlic bread or toasted focaccia
• Arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• White wine – Pair it with a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For tips, visit Wine Folly’s guide on wine pairings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~538 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 64g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Vitamin A: 7660 IU
• Vitamin C: 41mg
• Calcium: 400mg

Note: These are estimates based on a 3-serving recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you use ricotta cheese in pasta?

Absolutely! Ricotta adds a light, creamy texture that balances perfectly with pasta and citrus flavors.

What goes well with lemon ricotta pasta?

It pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Light white wines
• Crispy bread or salads

Can I make lemon ricotta pasta ahead of time?

You can prepare the ricotta mixture in advance. Cook pasta fresh and combine just before serving for best results.

Is ricotta cheese healthy?

Yes, especially whole milk ricotta, which contains calcium, protein, and healthy fats. Learn more from Healthline.

What is the difference between ricotta and cottage cheese?

• Ricotta is creamier and finer.
• Cottage cheese is lumpier and less rich. They’re not always interchangeable in pasta.

Can you freeze lemon ricotta pasta?

Not recommended. Freezing changes the texture of ricotta, making it grainy upon reheating.

Final Thoughts

This lemon ricotta pasta recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something incredibly delicious. It’s bright, creamy, refreshing, and totally adaptable to your mood or pantry.

Whether you’re cooking for one, your family, or guests—this pasta will not disappoint. So go ahead, try it, savor it, and maybe even make it your new signature dish.