Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe

If you’re searching for a bright, comforting meal that comes together quickly, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a true gem. Creamy ricotta melts into perfectly cooked pasta, brightened with zesty lemon and fresh spinach, making it a vibrant dish packed with flavor and nutrients. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a fresh, healthy dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon zest and fresh spinach brings a natural brightness to every bite.
• Creamy Comfort: The ricotta cheese adds a smooth, indulgent texture without heaviness.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with spinach and minimal processed components, it’s a nourishing meal option.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customize with different herbs, proteins, or pasta types to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are simple, wholesome ingredients that combine harmoniously to build layers of taste, texture, and color. Each one plays a vital role in making this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach shine.

• Pasta: Choose your favorite variety like spaghetti, linguine, or penne for a familiar, comforting base.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds creamy richness and balances the tartness of lemon with its smooth texture.
• Fresh Spinach: Contributes vibrant color and a mild, slightly earthy flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Lemon: Both zest and juice bring bright, refreshing acidity to cut through the creaminess.
• Garlic: Provides a flavorful foundation with its warm, aromatic kick.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté spinach and garlic, adding a silky mouthfeel and subtle earthiness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top for added depth and that irresistible savory punch.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors perfectly.

Variations for Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to tailor it easily according to what you have on hand or specific dietary needs. Plus, it invites you to get creative and make it truly your own.

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Vegan Twist: Substitute ricotta with cashew cream and skip the Parmesan to make it plant-based.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for a garden-fresh aroma and flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Top off with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added texture contrast.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

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How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until it’s al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then toss in fresh spinach, cooking until wilted but still bright green—this keeps the flavor fresh and texture vibrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce

Lower the heat and add ricotta cheese to the skillet with spinach and garlic. Stir gently, then mix in lemon zest and juice to give the sauce its signature lively tang.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the ricotta and spinach sauce. Slowly incorporate pasta water a little at a time to achieve a creamy, silky consistency that clings beautifully to the noodles.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finish with a good sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a final drizzle of olive oil for added richness before serving immediately.

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it adhere to the noodles perfectly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon, spinach, and garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor and brightness.
• Don’t Overcook Spinach: Wilt until just tender to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Warm Ricotta Slightly: Let ricotta come to room temperature or warm gently so it blends smoothly.
• Adjust Acidity: Taste and add more lemon juice if you prefer a zestier flavor profile.

How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a few lemon zest curls, or chopped herbs like basil create a visually appealing dish while layering on extra flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to balance textures and flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls with a fresh lemon wedge on the side for an elegant touch, or layer pasta with the sauce in clear glass containers for a striking meal prep option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to maintain creamy texture.

Freezing

While this pasta is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Reheating

Reheat slowly over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to refresh creaminess, stirring frequently to avoid drying out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use other greens besides spinach?

Absolutely! Kale, arugula, or Swiss chard work wonderfully and offer different flavor profiles and textures.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just swap regular pasta for any gluten-free variety to easily make a celiac-friendly meal.

What type of ricotta cheese is best?

Whole milk ricotta gives the creamiest texture, but you can opt for a part-skim version if you want to cut calories slightly.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace ricotta with a homemade or store-bought cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep it plant-based and delicious.

Can I prepare this ahead for meal prep?

Yes! Cook pasta and sauce separately, then combine just before eating to keep textures fresh and flavors bright.

Final Thoughts

This easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a creamy, fresh, and healthy dinner any night of the week. With simple ingredients and quick steps, it brings warmth and brightness to your table, making it a new favorite you’ll reach for again and again.

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