Hello, Kitchies! As the seasons change, our taste buds crave lighter, fresher flavors that echo the beauty of spring. That’s why today, we’re sharing a delightful recipe for Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach that’s sure to brighten up your plate. This pasta dish is a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors, featuring the creamy richness of ricotta, the tangy zing of lemon, and the nutritious goodness of spinach, all combined with the perfect balance of garlic, herbs, and spices.

This recipe is a celebration of the flavors of spring in every bite. The lemon and ricotta create a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more. The spinach adds a burst of freshness and nutrition, making this dish perfect for a light and healthy meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes!

Throughout my years in the kitchen, I’ve discovered that a good pasta dish can be both comforting and exciting. This recipe takes that concept to a new level, offering an explosion of flavors and textures in each bite. The lemon and garlic add a deep, savory taste, while the spinach and herbs provide a fresh and herbaceous note. The ricotta adds creaminess, balancing out the dish perfectly.

So let’s dive into making this delightful Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach that will surely become a springtime favorite!

Recipe Summary: Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Description: A light and refreshing pasta dish made with lemon ricotta sauce, spinach, garlic, and herbs, perfect for springtime meals.

How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Simplified Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or fettuccine)
• 1/2 cup (115g) ricotta cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (25g) fresh spinach leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Make the sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley. Blend until smooth.
3. Add spinach to the sauce: Add the spinach leaves to the blender and blend until well combined.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the blender with the sauce and blend until the pasta is well coated.
5. Add reserved pasta water: If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper: Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve with Parmesan cheese: Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of the spinach.
• Offer additional Parmesan cheese for those who want an extra layer of flavor.
• Consider adding other protein sources like cooked chicken or shrimp for added nutrition.

Nutritional Information:

Per Serving (approx. 1 cup):

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Sodium: 200mg

Tips and Variations:

• Use fresh herbs: For an even fresher flavor, use fresh herbs like basil or dill instead of parsley.
• Adjust lemon juice: Taste as you go and adjust the amount of lemon juice to your liking.
• Add protein: Consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• Make ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to use.

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Closing for Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a vibrant and refreshing springtime pasta dish that will surely brighten up your mealtime! It’s light, healthy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your experience with us – we’d love to hear how you enjoy this delicious recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions for Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

1. Can I use frozen spinach?

• Yes! Thaw frozen spinach according to package instructions before using.

1. What type of pasta is best?

• Choose a light pasta shape like bowtie or fettuccine to balance out the richness of the sauce.

1. Can I add other ingredients?

• Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Can I freeze this dish?

• Yes! Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

1. Is this dish vegan?

• No; it contains Parmesan cheese.

1. What’s a good substitute for ricotta cheese?

• You can use cottage cheese or goat cheese as substitutes.

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

• Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

1. How do I know when the pasta is al dente?
   • The pasta should still have a bit of bite or chew when cooked al dente.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
   • Yes; simply omit any animal-derived ingredients like Parmesan cheese.