If you’re searching for a pasta dish that feels like a burst of sunshine on your plate, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe is an absolute gem to try. Creamy ricotta pairs beautifully with bright lemon zest and juice, while fresh basil and a touch of garlic elevate the flavors to something truly memorable. It’s a quick, effortless recipe that delivers a fresh, tangy, and silky experience in every bite—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen not just for flavor but also for how it complements the texture and freshness of the dish, creating a harmonious balance that’s both comforting and vibrant.
- 12 oz pasta: Choose your favorite shape—spaghetti, linguine, or penne all work wonderfully to hold onto the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese: Adds a luscious creaminess that makes the sauce rich yet light.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that intensifies the savory notes.
- 1½ Tbsp olive oil: For a subtle fruity base that rounds out the flavors and keeps everything smooth.
- 2 lemons (zested and juiced): The star ingredient—giving the dish a refreshing zing and bright aroma.
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil: Infuses a fresh herbal fragrance that contrasts beautifully with the lemon.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a gentle pungency to balance the creaminess without overpowering it.
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste): Adds a whisper of spice to give the dish a touch of warmth.
How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt is essential as it seasons the pasta from the inside out. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente, which means they should be tender but still have a little firmness when bitten. Remember to reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain the pasta; this starchy water is crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Creamy Sauce
While the pasta simmers, combine the whole-milk ricotta, freshly grated parmesan, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, chopped basil, and the zest and juice of those vibrant lemons in a medium bowl. Slowly stir in some reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture, transforming it into a silky sauce that will effortlessly coat every strand of pasta. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper; this final seasoning step really brings all the elements to life.
Step 3: Toss Pasta with Sauce and Finish
Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large mixing bowl and pour in your creamy, lemon-infused ricotta sauce. Toss everything together with care to ensure every bite carries that perfect balance of creaminess and zing. Add more pasta water if the sauce feels too thick; it should lightly cling to the noodles without being heavy or gluey. Finish by garnishing with extra red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and an additional sprinkle of parmesan for a beautifully inviting presentation.
How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To really let your dish shine, sprinkle fresh basil leaves, a little extra freshly grated parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes on top. A final zesting of lemon brightens the presentation and adds a smile-inducing pop of citrus aroma just before serving.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe pairs exceptionally well with crisp green salads tossed in light vinaigrettes or simply roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes. For something heartier, a side of garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette complements the creamy texture and allows you to scoop up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Plate the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the glossy lemon ricotta sauce, or serve family-style in a large serving dish that invites sharing. For an extra touch, drizzle a little quality olive oil on top or add a few toasted pine nuts for crunch and an earthy richness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some sauce, so it’s best enjoyed fresh, but proper storage keeps flavor intact for a quick next-day meal.
Freezing
This particular pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing tends to change the texture of ricotta and fresh herbs. If you need to prep in advance, store the cooked pasta and sauce separately (without adding the lemon juice) and combine after thawing for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving directly without moisture as it can cause the creamy sauce to separate. A slow and patient reheat preserves the luscious texture and bright flavors of this Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ricotta for this recipe?
While low-fat ricotta will work, the sauce might be less creamy and rich. Whole-milk ricotta provides a silkier texture and fuller flavor that makes this Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe truly special.
What type of pasta works best?
Long pasta like spaghetti or linguine are fantastic for coating in the sauce, but short shapes like penne or rigatoni capture the ricotta mixture in their crevices beautifully too. Choose whatever you love most!
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute ricotta with a cashew-based cheese and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan. Fresh lemon, olive oil, and herbs will keep the dish bright and flavorful.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe can be a great meal prep choice if you store the sauce and pasta separately and combine them when ready to eat. Fresh basil is best added just before serving.
How can I add protein to this pasta?
Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu make wonderful protein additions without overshadowing the light, citrusy sauce. Add them right before serving to keep everything fresh and balanced.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how a few fresh, simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Its bright, creamy, and slightly spicy notes make it a beloved go-to in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will become one of yours too. Give it a try, and enjoy a dish that feels like a hug with a splash of sunshine in every bite!
Print
Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A bright and creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta featuring whole-milk ricotta, Parmesan, fresh basil, and a zesty lemon sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Produce
- 2 lemons, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil
Other
- 1½ Tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add salt and the pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Lemon Ricotta Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, chopped fresh basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Gradually add some of the reserved hot pasta water to the mixture, stirring until smooth. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the lemon ricotta sauce and toss until well coated. Add additional reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired creamy consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with extra red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- To make this dish gluten free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Reserve pasta water is key for adjusting the sauce creaminess without thinning the flavor.
- This dish is best served immediately for optimal texture and taste.
