Description
Bright, fresh, and incredibly creamy, this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is the perfect quick dinner! Made with ricotta cheese, Parmesan, garlic, and fresh lemon, it’s a light yet comforting pasta recipe that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
12 ounces (340g) pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, linguine, or penne) – Provides the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
1½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese – Creates a rich, silky, and creamy sauce.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds savory, nutty flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps sauté the garlic and enriches the sauce.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Adds aromatic flavor.
1 large lemon (juice and zest) – Brightens the dish with fresh citrus.
½ cup reserved pasta water – Helps create a smooth, glossy sauce.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds gentle spice.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Adds freshness and color.
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional) – Provides extra herb flavor.
Optional Add-Ins
- Baby spinach
- Fresh peas
- Roasted asparagus
- Broccoli florets
- Cherry tomatoes
- Grilled chicken
- Shrimp
- Smoked salmon
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Stir the ricotta mixture into the skillet over low heat.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
- Stir in the parsley and basil.
- Adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Garnish with Parmesan and fresh herbs, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to create the silkiest sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and fresh lemon for the best flavor.
- Serve immediately while the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 450 calories
