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Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta

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Zesty Lemon Ricotta and Spinach Pasta is a quick, creamy, and refreshing dish that combines bright lemon, smooth ricotta, and tender spinach for a balanced, flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with spinach. Stir in the ricotta mixture, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce is creamy.
  6. Toss everything together until pasta is evenly coated.
  7. Serve warm with optional Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  • Swap spinach with arugula or kale for variation.
  • Use mascarpone or cream cheese as a ricotta substitute.
  • Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy finish.
  • For a vegan version, use plant-based ricotta and nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/zesty-lemon-ricotta-and-spinach-pasta/