Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

Last updated on June 2, 2025

Get ready to delight your taste buds with a dish that’s not just flavorful but also incredibly simple to make: Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta. Imagine al dente pasta wrapped in a creamy ricotta cheese sauce, brightened with fresh lemon and vibrant spinach. This recipe combines the richness of cheese with the zing of citrus, creating a harmonious balance that pleases any palate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day or hosting friends for a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

This Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute entertaining.
Fresh Ingredients: With just a handful of fresh ingredients like spinach and lemon, this pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or by using different types of pasta according to your preference.
Family-Friendly: Its mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Impressive Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon and creamy ricotta creates a unique flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

Author: Sarah Mendez
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is a light, flavorful dish perfect for spring or summer. Creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and bright lemon come together in a satisfying pasta meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Instructions

Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
Sauté garlic and spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Mix ricotta and lemon: In a bowl, stir together ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add drained pasta to the skillet with spinach. Stir in the ricotta mixture and a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Toss until well coated.
Serve: Plate the pasta and top with Parmesan cheese. Add optional ingredients like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tomatoes if using. Finish with red pepper flakes for heat.

Notes

Use whole milk ricotta for a richer flavor, or part-skim for a lighter option.
This pasta is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Add more lemon juice or zest for a tangier dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: lemon ricotta spinach pasta, creamy lemon pasta, easy vegetarian pasta, spring pasta recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need for Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

For this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

12 oz pasta (your choice): Spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work beautifully.
1 cup ricotta cheese: This adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
2 cups fresh spinach: Packed with vitamins and adds a lovely color.
1 lemon (zested and juiced): Brings brightness and depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and enhancing the taste.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Introduces a wonderful aroma and flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish.
Parmesan cheese (for serving): A sprinkle on top elevates the entire dish.

Optional Add-Ons:

Grilled Chicken: For added protein, grill some chicken breasts and toss them in.
Shrimp: Quickly sauté shrimp in garlic and olive oil and mix them in for a seafood twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes for a touch of sweetness and color.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

How to Make Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s walk through how to prepare this delicious dish in just a few simple steps. Each step is designed to be straightforward and fun, so you’ll love cooking as much as eating!

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the pasta type. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and place it over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as it can turn bitter.

3. Cook the Spinach

Next, add the fresh spinach to the skillet with the garlic. Stir frequently and cook until the spinach is wilted, which should take around 2 to 3 minutes. As it cooks, the vibrant green leaves will shrink down beautifully.

4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. Taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary. The ricotta should give a creamy base that harmonizes perfectly with the zesty notes from the lemon.

5. Combine Everything

Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained pasta and the sautéed spinach to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.

6. Serve Warm

Transfer your zesty pasta to serving plates. Top each dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy it warm for the best experience!

Serving Suggestions for Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

Serving your Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta can be as simple or as elaborate as you like!

With a Side Salad: Pair it with a crisp salad of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the lemony notes perfectly.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance flavor and presentation.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create the perfect dining experience!

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

To ensure your pasta dish comes out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind:

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep a close eye on your pasta to ensure it remains al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when you mix it with the warm ricotta sauce.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Use fresh spinach, high-quality ricotta, and a good olive oil for the best flavor.
Adjusting Creaminess: If you find the dish too thick after combining, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Zest with Care: When zesting the lemon, only take the yellow part of the peel, as the white pith beneath can be bitter.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later.

Easy Variations for Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to explore some easy variations:

Nutty Flavor: Stir in a handful of walnuts or pine nuts for some crunch.
Vegetable Boost: Add in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or oregano into the ricotta mixture for an aromatic twist.
Creamy Spinach Sauce: Blend the sautéed spinach with ricotta for a creamy sauce variation.

Feel free to experiment and create your own version that suits your taste.

Storage Tips to Store Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

If you have leftovers (which can be hard to imagine!), here are some tips for storing and reheating them:

In the Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta moist.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it by placing the pasta in an airtight container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just remember that the texture may change slightly after thawing.

Conclusion

Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful journey of flavors that are sure to brighten your day. With its simplicity and vibrant taste, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing with loved ones, this dish is always a winner. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a bowl of creamy, zesty goodness!

FAQs About Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

1. Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw it and drain excess water before adding it to the dish.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta made from rice or lentils as a substitute.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute ricotta with a plant-based ricotta made from nuts or tofu and use vegan pasta.

4. How can I add more protein to the dish?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

5. What can I serve with Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta?

It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.

With this extensive guide, you are now well-equipped to create a delicious Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta that is sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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