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EASY LEMON RICOTTA PASTA & SPINACH

Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach for a Fresh Weeknight Boost

EASY LEMON RICOTTA PASTA & SPINACH is a quick, flavorful dish that balances comfort and health.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1/2 lb Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Whole-Milk Ricotta fresh ricotta enhances creaminess and flavor
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese plus extra for serving
  • 1 whole Lemon zest and juice
  • 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil plus extra for drizzling
  • 1 clove Garlic grated or pressed
  • Salt to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste
For the Spinach
  • 8 oz Fresh Baby Spinach adds nutrition and delightful color

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • medium bowl
  • Fork or whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add ½ pound of your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, and cook according to the package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, combine 1 cup of whole-milk ricotta, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, ⅓ cup of grated Parmesan, 1 clove of minced garlic, and the zest and juice of 1 unwaxed lemon in a medium bowl. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
  3. In the final minute of pasta cooking, toss in 8 ounces of fresh baby spinach to the pot. Allow it to cook for about 1 minute or until wilted, then drain the pasta and spinach together.
  4. Return the drained pasta and spinach to the pot while it’s still warm. Gradually stir in the ricotta sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
  5. Spoon the Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach into serving bowls immediately. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and wedges of fresh lemon. Serve fresh for best taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best experience, don’t overcook the pasta and ensure to use fresh lemon juice and zest for optimal flavor.

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