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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lemon Ricotta Pasta: Creamy Bliss in Just 20 Minutes

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Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a creamy, quick dish that combines vibrant lemon flavor with rich ricotta, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Ricotta Opt for Pecorino Romano for saltiness or cashew ricotta for dairy-free.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Use organic lemons to avoid pesticide residues.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Adds vibrant citrus flavor.
  • 1 clove Garlic Grate with a Microplane for seamless incorporation.
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil Use high-quality oil for the best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast.
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine are ideal.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cup
  • colander
  • whisk
  • microplane

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Use approximately one tablespoon of coarse sea salt for flavor.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine whole milk ricotta, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Grate a clove of garlic using a Microplane and add it to the mixture.
  3. Once the water is boiling, add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, subtracting one minute for al dente.
  4. Before draining the pasta, reserve a cup of the hot pasta water. Once done, drain the spaghetti.
  5. Incorporate about 1/4 cup of reserved hot pasta water into the ricotta mixture to help loosen it.
  6. Return the drained spaghetti to the pot and pour the ricotta sauce over the pasta, gently tossing to coat.
  7. For a nutritious boost, consider adding fresh spinach while the pasta is still warm.
  8. Serve in warmed bowls, garnishing with extra cheese, torn basil leaves, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 18gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with reserved pasta water for creaminess.

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