Name: Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Pasta (any shape like spaghetti or penne); 8 oz Fresh Baby Spinach (can swap with other leafy greens); 1 cup Ricotta Cheese (essential for rich texture); 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese (substituting nutritional yeast makes it vegan-friendly); 1 unit Lemon (zest and juice); 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (plus extra for drizzling); 1 clove Garlic (grated or pressed); Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

The aroma of lemon zest danced through the kitchen as I prepped for dinner, stirring up memories of sunlit picnics and warm evenings spent with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach—a dish that transforms your hectic weeknight into a culinary escape. In less than 15 minutes, this quick recipe brings together creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a delightful citrus kick, making it not only a breeze to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. The best part? This vegetarian pasta is a crowd-pleaser that even busy home chefs can master without breaking a sweat. What’s your favorite quick meal for those nights when time seems to slip away?

Why is this Lemon Ricotta Pasta a favorite?

Simplicity at Its Best: This dish is a breeze to make, allowing anyone from novice cooks to seasoned chefs to create a delicious meal in less than 15 minutes.

Creamy Delight: The rich ricotta blends beautifully with the zesty lemon, delivering a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds, making for a satisfying dinner that rivals any restaurant dish.

Healthy and Colorful: Fresh baby spinach not only adds vibrant color but also boosts nutrition, providing essential vitamins—perfect if you’re looking for a wholesome vegetarian option.

Versatile Variations: Want to mix it up? You can easily add grilled chicken, seasonal veggies like zucchini or even swap spinach for kale; endless options await!

Perfect for Busy Nights: This quick recipe saves you time on hectic evenings while ensuring you can enjoy a quality, homemade meal that delights family and friends alike. If you’re craving something lighter but still creamy, you might also enjoy my Lemon Asparagus Pasta or my rich Penne Pasta.

LEMON RICOTTA PASTA Ingredients

• Whip up this delightful dish with these simple, easy-to-find ingredients.

For the Pasta

Pasta – 1/2 lb (8oz/220 grams); any shape like spaghetti or penne works beautifully as the base for this lemon ricotta pasta.
Fresh Baby Spinach – 8 oz (230 grams); bright and nutritious, you can swap it with other leafy greens for variety.

For the Sauce

Ricotta Cheese – 1 cup (9oz/250 grams); this creamy choice is essential for the rich texture in your dish.
Parmesan Cheese – 1/3 cup (35 grams); enhances the flavor with a salty punch—substituting nutritional yeast makes it vegan-friendly.
Lemon – 1 unwaxed lemon (zest and juice); fresh juice adds a zing that perfectly balances the creaminess of the ricotta.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 1 Tbsp + extra for drizzling; this adds flavor and helps emulsify the sauce for a smooth finish.
Garlic – 1 clove, grated or pressed; fresh garlic brings an aromatic depth to your creamy sauce.
Salt and Black Pepper – To taste; essential for perfect seasoning that elevates the dish.

This easy lemon ricotta pasta & spinach recipe is not only delightful but also versatile—perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something delicious and homemade!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for LEMON RICOTTA PASTA & SPINACH

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your favorite pasta—such as spaghetti or penne—and cook according to package directions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the texture—it should be firm yet tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, take a medium bowl and combine the ricotta cheese, extra virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a spatula to blend all ingredients until you have a creamy and well-combined mixture, set aside to let the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Add Spinach to Pasta
In the last minute of cooking the pasta, carefully add the fresh baby spinach to the pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the boiling water. This will wilt the spinach beautifully without losing its vibrant color or nutrients. Once done, drain the pasta and spinach together in a colander, shaking off excess water.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Spinach, and Sauce
Return the drained pasta and spinach to the pot over low heat. Add the ricotta sauce mixture and toss everything gently, allowing the sauce to coat each piece of pasta. If the consistency is too thick, gradually add a small amount of reserved pasta water, mixing until you achieve a creamy texture that clings deliciously to the LEMON RICOTTA PASTA.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Immediately plate the creamy lemon ricotta pasta and spinach, and take a moment to admire the beautiful colors. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness, and lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your delightful meal while it’s warm!

Lemon Ricotta Pasta Variations

Feel free to adapt this dish to suit your taste buds and pantry! Each twist guarantees a delightful new experience.

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or salmon for a hearty touch. It adds substantial flavor and makes the meal even more satisfying. A great option if you’re looking for something filling!
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate zucchini, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and nutrition. These colorful additions brighten your plate, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Leafy Greens Swap: Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile. This change can invigorate the dish’s taste, making it exciting each time you prepare it.
Vegan Option: Replace ricotta with a blend of cashew cream or tofu for a plant-based version. It yields a creamy texture while keeping the vibrant flavors intact—perfect for vegans!
Cheesy Twist: Use goat cheese or feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a more intense flavor. The creaminess of goat cheese will elevate every bite, taking this dish to another level!
Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or sauté some chopped chili for a spicy kick. Spice lovers will enjoy this fiery addition, turning a mellow dish into a bold experience.
Herbal Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic boost. These herbs will add layers of flavor and enhance the overall essence of your lemon ricotta pasta.

If you’re craving something lighter but still creamy, you might also enjoy my Lemon Zucchini Pasta or my rich Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce. Embrace the culinary journey of this recipe with your own variations!

Expert Tips for Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Texture Matters: Gradually add reserved pasta water to your lemon ricotta pasta, ensuring a creamy consistency without sacrificing flavor.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the spinach; adding it in the last minute avoids overcooking and helps retain its vibrant green color and nutrients.
Pasta Choice: Select a pasta shape that captures the sauce well. Smaller shapes may not hold the creamy ricotta like larger ones, so go for spaghetti or penne.
Freshness is Key: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled juice lacks the bright taste essential for this creamy dish.
Experiment with Greens: Feel free to swap spinach for other leafy greens like arugula or kale for a unique twist on your lemon ricotta pasta.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so make it just before serving for the optimal creamy experience.

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Refrigerator: Keep leftover lemon ricotta pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Freezer: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the pasta for up to 1 month in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a little water or broth to restore creaminess.

Serving: If reheating leftovers, do so gradually to maintain the creamy texture of the ricotta. Avoid microwaving for best results, as it can lead to uneven heating and a grainy texture.

Storage Tips: Always label your containers with the date! This ensures you consume your lemon ricotta pasta while it’s still at its best.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ricotta sauce and store it in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop. Simply mix ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, and juice, then season and refrigerate in an airtight container. You can also cook the pasta ahead of time; just be sure to toss it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the pasta gently and follow steps 4 and 5, adding the wilted spinach and creamy sauce for delightful results that are just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with this creamy dish.

Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery loaf infused with garlic provides a crunchy contrast, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and a tangy dressing bring a refreshing crunch, balancing the rich flavors of your pasta.
Zucchini Noodles: These light, zucchini spirals offer a fresh, low-carb alternative that adds a fun texture and color to your meal.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy and savory, grilled chicken adds a protein boost that perfectly complements the creamy goodness of the lemon ricotta pasta.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender stalks with a hint of char create a delightful contrast, both in flavor and nutrition spectrum. This side also adds a seasonal touch.
Sparkling Lemonade: This fizzy drink mirrors the pasta’s zesty notes, making for a refreshing sip that’s light and uplifting.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse is a lovely contrast to the bright citrus flavors, leaving you with a satisfying finish.
Lemon Bars: These sweet, tangy treats echo the pasta’s notes and will delight your guests as a sunny finale to the meal.

Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my lemons are ripe?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, choose lemons that are firm and heavy for their size. Look for ones that have a bright yellow color without any dark spots. When squeezed, they should yield slightly to pressure, indicating juiciness. If they’re hard or have dark blemishes, they’re likely past their prime.

What’s the best way to store leftover lemon ricotta pasta?
Absolutely! Store your leftover lemon ricotta pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a pan on low heat, adding a splash of water to ensure it gets back that creamy texture.

Can I freeze lemon ricotta pasta for later?
Very! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the lemon ricotta pasta for up to 1 month. To do this, let the pasta cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a bit of water or broth to restore creaminess.

What should I do if my ricotta sauce is too thick?
No problem! If you find your ricotta sauce is too thick after mixing, simply add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until you reach the desired creamy consistency. Be sure to mix well to ensure all flavors meld perfectly.

Is this recipe suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
If you’re lactose intolerant, consider substituting the ricotta cheese with lactose-free ricotta or a vegan option like cashew cream blended with lemon juice for a tangy kick. Nutritional yeast can also replace Parmesan for added flavor without the dairy.

Can pets eat lemon ricotta pasta?
No, it’s best to keep this delicious dish away from pets! The garlic and lemon can be harmful to dogs, and dairy can upset their stomachs. Always ensure they stick to their own food for a happy tummy!