This Easy Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a true delight! With creamy ricotta cheese and a zesty lemon flavor, it’s the perfect dish when you want something quick and yummy.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up! Just cook your pasta, mix in the ricotta, add some lemon juice, and voilà—dinner is served! It’s so good, even the leftovers disappear fast! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: This shape holds the sauce well, but you can substitute it with any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work great.
Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta adds a lovely creaminess. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using goat cheese for a tangy twist, or for a lighter option, cottage cheese works too.
Parmesan Cheese: A good source of umami! If you need a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Spinach or Arugula: Fresh greens add color and nutrients. If you don’t have them, kale is a sturdy alternative; just chop it finely and sauté until tender.
Lemon: The bright zest and juice are key for flavor. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch but won’t be as vibrant.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without Overcooking the Garlic?
The garlic is crucial for flavor, but you want to avoid burning it. Here’s how to perfectly sauté it:
- Use medium heat for sautéing. Add garlic and watch it closely; it only needs about a minute to become fragrant.
- If you’re cooking for longer, add it towards the end of the heating process with a splash of liquid, like stock, to keep it from burning.
- When mixing in ingredients like the ricotta and lemon juice, lower the heat to prevent the cheese from overcooking and getting grainy.
Always trust your senses! If it smells delicious, you’re on the right track! Enjoy making this lovely dish! 🍋
Easy Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or any tube-shaped pasta
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat
For the Greens:
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach or arugula
Time Needed
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the sauce, and about 10 minutes sautéing the ingredients to get everything perfect. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Make sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help with the sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, or it will taste bitter.
3. Add the Greens:
Next, toss the baby spinach or arugula into the skillet with the garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, just until the greens are wilted and vibrant.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat and add the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir everything together until it becomes a smooth, creamy sauce. If it seems a bit thick, don’t worry; the pasta will help loosen it up.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it gently to coat with the creamy sauce. If you need to adjust the consistency, pour in some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Gently mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season your dish with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy lemon ricotta pasta immediately. For an extra touch, garnish with more lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper. Dive in and enjoy this refreshing and satisfying meal!
Bon appétit! 🍋
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is great for holding the sauce, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary!
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use whole-milk cottage cheese for a similar texture or goat cheese for a tangier flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Yes! You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to this dish for extra protein. Just mix them in when you combine the pasta with the sauce for a heartier meal!
