Creamy Ricotta Lemon Pasta

Pasta dishes hold a special place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide, celebrated for their comforting warmth and incredible versatility. From hearty bakes to light, fresh plates, pasta can adapt to any mood or occasion. Among these delightful preparations, Zesty Creamy Ricotta Lemon Pasta stands out as a particularly refreshing choice that combines the richness of creamy ricotta with the bright, invigorating essence of lemon. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also envelops you in a comforting embrace, making it perfect for both cozy weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings.

Discover the refreshing taste of Zesty Creamy Ricotta Lemon Pasta, a dish that combines the rich creaminess of ricotta with the bright zing of lemon. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for both cozy weeknight dinners and special gatherings. With just a few ingredients like fresh ricotta, pasta, garlic, and herbs, you can create a luscious sauce that beautifully coats each strand. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors and the warmth of home-cooked meals with this easy-to-make pasta recipe that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice

1 cup fresh ricotta cheese

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)

Additional lemon zest and basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (typically about 8-10 minutes). Before draining, reserve approximately 1 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is soft and fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.

Combine Ricotta and Lemon: Lower the heat to medium-low in the skillet. Add the ricotta cheese to the garlic-infused oil, followed by the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of spice.

Mix the Pasta and Sauce: Carefully add the drained pasta to the skillet containing the ricotta sauce. Toss the pasta into the sauce gently, ensuring each strand is well-coated. Gradually add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, mixing until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess.

Finish with Cheese and Basil: Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped basil into the pasta. Stir well to combine and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.

Serve: Transfer the creamy pasta onto plates, garnishing with extra lemon zest, fresh basil leaves, and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and enjoyment!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings