Description
Silky strands of pasta dance with zesty lemon ricotta in this Mediterranean-inspired comfort dish. Creamy, tangy flavors and simple ingredients blend seamlessly, promising a quick, elegant meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional:
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) pasta water (reserved)
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, keeping 1/4 cup of starchy cooking liquid for later use.
- Combine ricotta cheese with bright citrus zest, tangy lemon juice, aged Parmesan, seasoning, and a hint of spicy red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl.
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium temperature, gently sautéing minced garlic until aromatic and softened, approximately 60 seconds.
- Transfer hot pasta directly into the skillet, folding it through the creamy ricotta blend, gradually incorporating reserved pasta water to create a silky, luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to each noodle.
- Plate immediately, scattering freshly chopped herbs like verdant basil or delicate parsley across the top for a vibrant finishing touch.
Notes
- Grate lemon zest finely to maximize citrusy flavor without bitter white pith.
- Use room temperature ricotta for smoother, creamier sauce consistency.
- Add reserved pasta water gradually to control sauce thickness and prevent clumping.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for unique flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 455 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg