Easy Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti Recipe: A Burst of Freshness on Your Plate

Elevate your pasta game with this delightful Easy Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti Recipe. This dish combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic, creating a light and refreshing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the world of Italian-inspired cuisine and discover the magic of this simple yet delicious dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces spaghetti (or your favorite pasta of choice)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta
• 8 ounces of baby fresh spinach
• 1 unwaxed lemon, zest and juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 minced garlic clove
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the whole-milk ricotta, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Toss to combine.
6. Stir in the ricotta mixture, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
8. Serve the Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For added protein, you can add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta to the dish.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or asparagus.
• You can use low-fat ricotta cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option, but keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess of the dish slightly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

A: Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked spaghetti, sautéed spinach, and ricotta mixture separately in the refrigerator, and reheat them gently before combining.

Q: Can I make a keto-friendly version of this dish?

A: To make a keto-friendly version, you can substitute the spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles. You can also use almond flour or coconut flour instead of wheat-based pasta, and replace the whole-milk ricotta with full-fat Greek yogurt or cream cheese.

Q: How can I make a low-carb version of this dish?

A: To make a low-carb version, you can use spiralized vegetables such as zucchini or spaghetti squash instead of pasta. You can also reduce the amount of ricotta cheese and add more vegetables to lower the carb content.

This Easy Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti Recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and freshness. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home. Buon appetito!