Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Delight
This dish comes together in 15 minutes and will make a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation! The ricotta makes this dish so creamy and the lemon zest adds a touch of freshness
Spinach provides fiber, vitamins A, C and iron, and ricotta adds protein and fat, making it a balanced meal.
I usually cook with spelled, quinoa or chickpea paste, but any pasta you like will work. It's great with language too!
Ingredients
A. List of ingredients:
8 ounces of pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
1 tablespoon of olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of ricotta cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cups of fresh spinach leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How To Make "Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Delight"
Instructions
A. Step 1: Cooking the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
(Note: While the pasta is cooking, you can proceed with the next steps.)
B. Step 2: Preparing the creamy sauce
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.
4. Add lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
C. Step 3: Incorporating the ricotta and spinach
1. Reduce the heat to low and add the ricotta cheese to the skillet.
2. Stir until the ricotta is melted and well combined.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet, stirring until wilted.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
D. Step 4: Combining the sauce with the pasta
1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss the pasta until it is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
3. Cook for an additional few minutes to ensure the pasta is heated through.
IV. Serving
A. Transfer the creamy lemon ricotta pasta to serving plates or bowls.
B. Optional: Garnish with additional lemon zest and grated Parmesan cheese.
C. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors.
V. Conclusion
A. Recap the creamy and refreshing qualities of the dish.
B. Encourage readers to try this recipe for a satisfying and flavorful pasta dish.
C. Share your appreciation for the combination of lemon, ricotta, and spinach in creating a delightful experience.
VI. Variations and Tips
A. Variations:
1. Add roasted cherry tomatoes or caramelized onions for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
2. Incorporate cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory twist.
3. Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of spiciness.
B. Tips:
1. Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
2. For a lighter version, use low-fat ricotta or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
3. Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or basil to enhance the flavor profile.
VII. Serving and Garnish
A. Transfer the creamy lemon ricotta pasta with spinach to serving plates or bowls.
B. Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few lemon
Faq
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using fettuccine or linguine, you can use any type of pasta you prefer or have on hand. Penne, spaghetti, or even rotini would work well with the creamy lemon ricotta sauce and spinach. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific type of pasta you choose
Q: Can I substitute low-fat ricotta or Greek yogurt for the heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute low-fat ricotta or Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the sauce. This modification will reduce the overall richness but still provide a creamy and tangy element to the dish. Adjust the quantities as needed, and keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Q: Can I add additional ingredients to the dish?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment and add your favorite ingredients to customize the recipe. Some popular additions include cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein, roasted cherry tomatoes or caramelized onions for added sweetness, or even cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory twist. Just ensure that the additional ingredients complement the flavors of lemon, ricotta, and spinach.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While this dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, you can prepare some components in advance to save time. You can cook the pasta and store it separately from the sauce. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop and toss it with the cooked pasta until heated through. However, keep in mind that the texture and consistency of the sauce may slightly differ when reheated.
Q: How long can I store the leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pasta completely before storing it. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream or milk to revive the creaminess.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate and result in a grainy texture when thawed and reheated. It is best to enjoy the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Delight fresh or refrigerate the leftovers for a few days.
Remember to adjust the instructions and cooking times based on your specific recipe and preferences. Enjoy preparing and savoring your Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach
Delight!
Recipe Card
Nutrition
Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (serving size may vary):
Calories: Around 400-500 calories
Total Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
Saturated Fat: Around 6-8 grams
Cholesterol: Approximately 30-40 milligrams
Sodium: Around 300-400 milligrams
Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60 grams
Fiber: Around 3-5 grams
Sugars: Approximately 3-5 grams
Protein: Around 15-20 grams
Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredient choices, cooking methods, and portion sizes. It is always a good idea to consult specific ingredient labels and use a nutritional calculator for precise measurements and dietary needs.
If you have any dietary concerns or restrictions, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
