Sweet peas, fresh lemon zest, and creamy ricotta create the perfect balance in this Spring Pea and Lemon Ricotta Pasta. It feels light yet comforting and comes together quickly with simple ingredients.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh spring flavor
• Light and creamy texture
• Ready in 25 minutes
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect vegetarian dinner

---

Preparation and Cooking Time

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

---

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti)
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• 1 ½ cups peas (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)

Swap: Use white beans for added protein.

---

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, mix 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 peas and cook 2–3 minutes until tender and bright.
5. Add drained pasta to the skillet.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta mixture.
7. Add reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce turns silky.
8. Stir in Parmesan and basil. Serve Spring Pea and Lemon Ricotta Pasta immediately.

---

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Grilled chicken
• Sautéed shrimp
• Crisp arugula salad
• Crusty bread

Add extra lemon zest before serving.

---

Quick Tips or Variations

• Toast pine nuts for added texture.
• Stir in spinach for extra greens.
• Avoid high heat after adding ricotta to keep the sauce smooth.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen peas in lemon ricotta pasta?

Yes. Thaw frozen peas and add them near the end so they stay bright and tender.

What does ricotta add to pasta?

Ricotta creates a creamy texture without heaviness and balances the lemon.

How do you keep ricotta pasta sauce from getting dry?

Add reserved pasta water gradually to create a smooth sauce.

What protein goes well with pea and lemon pasta?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans pair well.

Spring Pea and Lemon Ricotta Pasta delivers bright citrus flavor and creamy comfort in every bite. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a simple spring dinner.

Print