Description
This creamy Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta is a light yet satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights. With tender pasta tossed in a velvety ricotta sauce, bright lemon zest, and fresh spinach, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a quick and easy dinner recipe, high in protein and full of fresh ingredients. Serve it warm or as a chilled pasta salad for a versatile meal.
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
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1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk for extra creaminess)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
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1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
Instructions
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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Sauté the garlic & spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
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Prepare the ricotta sauce: In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined.
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Combine everything: Reduce the heat to low and add the drained pasta to the skillet. Pour in the ricotta sauce and toss well. Gradually add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Serve: Divide pasta into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy warm!
Notes
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Make it creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or an extra spoonful of ricotta for a richer sauce.
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Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for a protein boost.
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Storage & reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 30mg