Fresh lemon zest, creamy ricotta, and silky pasta come together in this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach. It tastes bright and comforting at the same time. This dish feels special but uses simple ingredients you likely already have.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light yet creamy texture
• Bright, fresh lemon flavor
• Ready in 25 minutes
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for weeknights

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Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water

Swap: Blend cottage cheese until smooth if you do not have ricotta.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a bowl, stir ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Add drained pasta to the skillet.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta mixture.
7. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce turns silky.
8. Stir in Parmesan and serve Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach immediately.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Grilled chicken
• Sautéed shrimp
• Roasted asparagus
• Arugula salad

Add extra lemon zest on top for brightness.

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Quick Tips or Variations

• Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest result.
• Stir in fresh basil before serving.
• Toast breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does ricotta do in pasta sauce?

Ricotta creates a light, creamy coating that clings to pasta without feeling heavy.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta in pasta?

Yes. Blend cottage cheese until smooth before adding it.

How do you keep ricotta pasta sauce creamy?

Mix ricotta with warm pasta water and avoid cooking over high heat.

What goes well with lemon ricotta pasta?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad pair well.

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Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach brings fresh citrus flavor and comforting creaminess together in one easy dish. It’s quick, bright, and perfect for busy evenings.

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