Description
This Easy Ricotta Pasta Recipe combines creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and al dente pasta for a delightful dish that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering!
Ingredients
- Spaghetti or fettuccine (or any pasta shape)
- Ricotta cheese
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- Olive oil (extra virgin)
- Garlic (fresh)
- Baby spinach
- Lemon zest
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Add the Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Combine the Ricotta: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Mix the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and spinach. Gently toss to combine.
- Incorporate the Ricotta: Spoon the ricotta mixture into the pasta. Gradually add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired creaminess. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve immediately. Top with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize with other vegetables like peas, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes. For added protein, consider cooked chicken, beef, or chickpeas. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor.