Quick Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti

Instructions for Making Quick Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the spaghetti. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.

2. Prepare the Lemon Ricotta Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Add the ricotta cheese to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and olive oil. The ricotta will begin to soften and become creamy. Gradually add in the lemon zest and lemon juice—the zest will add a burst of citrus flavor, while the juice will provide a tangy brightness to balance the creaminess of the ricotta.

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce looks too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup at a time) to thin it out and create a silky smooth texture.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your ricotta sauce is creamy and well-seasoned, add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet. Toss the pasta gently to coat it with the sauce, adding more pasta water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency. The pasta should be evenly coated with the creamy ricotta mixture, with just enough sauce to cling to the noodles.

4. Finish and Serve

Once the pasta and sauce are well combined, give everything a final taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Transfer the pasta to serving plates.

For a little extra flavor, sprinkle the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat, balancing the creamy and zesty elements of the dish.

Why This Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti is So Delicious

• Creamy yet Light: Ricotta cheese creates a creamy sauce without being heavy or overly rich. It gives the pasta a comforting texture while maintaining a lightness that’s perfect for warmer weather or when you’re craving something refreshing.
• Zesty Lemon Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and lemon juice adds a bright and vibrant kick to the dish. The citrusy flavor cuts through the creaminess of the ricotta, giving the pasta a refreshing lift.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal but don’t have a lot of time. The simple ingredients are pantry staples, so you likely have everything you need already.
• Customizable: While this recipe is delicious as is, it can easily be adapted to suit your tastes. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to make the dish heartier. You can also experiment with different herbs, like thyme or oregano, for added depth.

Tips for Perfecting Quick Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the sauce for a minute or two, be sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t become mushy once combined with the ricotta sauce.
• Use Fresh Ricotta: Fresh ricotta has a smoother, creamier texture and a more delicate flavor than pre-packaged ricotta, so it’s worth seeking out for this recipe.
• Adjust the Lemon Flavor: If you love lemon, feel free to add extra zest or juice to the sauce. The acidity of the lemon pairs beautifully with the richness of the ricotta, so you can play with the balance to suit your preference.
• Make It a Meal: For a more filling dish, try adding a protein like grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed shrimp. Vegetables like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas also pair wonderfully with the lemon ricotta sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory, making it a fantastic choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, an easy dinner, or a crowd-pleasing meal for a family gathering, this recipe delivers in both flavor and simplicity. Plus, it’s an excellent way to make use of staple pantry ingredients while still impressing with a gourmet taste.

So next time you’re in the mood for a pasta dish that’s fresh, comforting, and a breeze to make, give this lemon ricotta spaghetti a try. With its creamy sauce, bright lemon flavor, and perfect texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your pasta repertoire!