Ideal Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe That You’ll Ever Twirl

Lemon ricotta pasta is a fresh and creamy dish that brings brightness to the dinner table.

The smooth ricotta creates a velvety base, while lemon adds a burst of flavor that feels both light and refreshing.

Simple ingredients come together quickly, making this recipe as practical as it is delicious.

The Mediterranean influence is clear, with a balance of citrus and cheese that feels both elegant and comforting.

Tender pasta soaks up the sauce, creating a satisfying meal that is rich without being heavy.

Lemon ricotta pasta is a dish that turns basic pantry staples into something you’ll be proud to serve.

Lemon Ricotta Pasta Quick Notes

• Quick Comfort Dish: Whip up this pasta in minutes with minimal ingredients and basic cooking skills, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Flavor Explosion: Bright lemon and rich ricotta create a tangy, creamy sauce that transforms simple pasta into a gourmet experience without complex techniques.
• Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adapt the recipe by adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or keeping it vegetarian, making it versatile for different dietary preferences and hunger levels.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes and straightforward cooking process mean less cleanup and more enjoyment, appealing to home cooks seeking simplicity and convenience.

Lemon Ricotta Pasta Essentials

• Pasta: A classic base that provides structure and texture to the dish.
• Ricotta Cheese: A creamy, soft cheese that creates a smooth and rich sauce.
• Lemon: Adds bright flavor and freshness to the pasta.

• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

• Garlic, Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Classic seasonings that add depth, heat, and complexity to the pasta.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Brings citrusy brightness and tanginess to the dish.

• Fresh Basil, Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, aromatic garnish to complete the dish.

• Olive Oil, Pasta Water: Essential for creating a smooth, creamy sauce and preventing the pasta from sticking.

Cooking Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta To Perfection

Cook the pasta according to package instructions.

Before draining, carefully scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water, which will be crucial for creating a silky sauce later.

Step 2: Awaken The Garlic’s Flavor

In a spacious skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté until it becomes wonderfully aromatic and just begins to turn golden, which takes about 60 seconds.

Step 3: Create The Creamy Ricotta Blend

• Ricotta cheese
• Grated Parmesan
• Fresh lemon zest
• Tangy lemon juice
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Spicy red pepper flakes

Stir these ingredients until they form a smooth, fragrant mixture.

Step 4: Marry Pasta With Creamy Sauce

Transfer the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sautéed garlic.

Pour the ricotta mixture over the pasta.

Gradually introduce the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously to develop a luxuriously creamy sauce that clings perfectly to each pasta strand.

Step 5: Final Flourish

Toss the pasta thoroughly to ensure every piece is gloriously coated.

Remove the skillet from heat.

Step 6: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top.

Serve immediately while the pasta is steaming hot and gloriously creamy.

Helpful Hints for Lemon Ricotta Pasta

• Save that starchy liquid gold when draining pasta, as it helps create a silky, clingy sauce that perfectly coats every noodle.
• Grate fresh lemon zest directly into the ricotta mixture for maximum citrusy flavor and bright, aromatic notes.
• Mix Parmesan and ricotta for a creamy, tangy base that adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference, starting with a pinch and adding more for a spicier kick.
• Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley just before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch that elevates the entire dish.

Creative Spins for Ricotta Pasta

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace ricotta with silken tofu blended until smooth, using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta with chickpea or zucchini noodles to accommodate gluten-sensitive diners.
• Herb Lover’s Version: Substitute basil with a mix of fresh dill, chives, and tarragon for an aromatic herb-packed pasta experience.
• Protein Power: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pan-seared tofu cubes to transform the dish into a more substantial meal.

What to Pair with Lemon Ricotta Pasta

• Fresh Herb Explosion: Sprinkle chopped basil, parsley, or chives generously on top for a burst of bright, fresh flavor that complements the creamy pasta.
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: Add extra grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese on top for an additional layer of rich, tangy goodness that elevates the dish.
• Protein Power-Up: Top with grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or crispy pancetta to transform this pasta into a more substantial meal that satisfies hunger.
• Crunch Factor: Scatter toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs over the pasta to introduce a delightful textural contrast against the smooth, creamy sauce.

Storing Lemon Ricotta Pasta Properly

• Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odor absorption.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of water, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between each interval to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to restore creaminess. Gently stir and toss until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various pasta shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or penne. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well.

• Is this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This creamy lemon ricotta pasta is completely vegetarian and can be easily made with ingredients from your pantry.

• How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or tofu to increase protein content while maintaining the delicious lemon and ricotta flavors.

• What if I don’t have fresh herbs for garnish?

No worries! You can skip the fresh herbs or use dried parsley or basil as an alternative garnish for your pasta.

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Lemon ricotta pasta is light yet creamy, with bright citrus and herbs folded into tender pasta. An Italian-inspired dish that feels both simple and elegant.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 1 cup (240 grams) 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)
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) pasta water (reserved)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, carefully extracting and preserving 1/4 cup of starchy cooking liquid before straining.
2. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium temperature, gently sautéing minced garlic until aromatic and lightly golden (approximately 60 seconds).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until smooth.
4. Add the pasta to the skillet and fold in the ricotta mixture, using a little of the reserved cooking water at a time to create a silky sauce.
5. Toss well so every strand is covered, then take the skillet off the heat.
6. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley across the surface as a final garnish, presenting the dish while temperature remains optimal for maximum flavor enjoyment.

Notes

• Ensure pasta water is starchy and salty to help create a silky, flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to the noodles.
• Use room temperature ricotta for smoother blending and easier incorporation into the pasta mixture.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal spice tolerance, adding more for heat lovers or reducing for milder palates.
• Consider swapping herbs like using fresh thyme or oregano instead of basil for a different aromatic profile that complements the creamy lemon base.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 460 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 56 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 17 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg