Go Back
–+ servings
Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula for Quick Comfort

Quick and flavorful Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula, a delightful vegetarian dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta Short shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese The star of the sauce, providing rich creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Adds an aromatic burst of citrus flavor.
  • 2 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the dish.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Infuses a nutty depth.
  • 2 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds smoothness to the sauce.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds gentle heat.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for extra kick.
For the Greens
  • 4 cups Arugula Offers a fresh and peppery bite.
For the Finish
  • 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water Crucial for achieving a silky sauce.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Tongs or large fork

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, parmesan, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Return drained pasta to the pot. Add the ricotta mixture and toss thoroughly, gradually incorporating reserved pasta water until creamy.
  4. Gently fold in arugula. Heat until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Serve immediately in warm bowls. Top with additional parmesan and black pepper.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm for optimal texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!