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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a light, creamy, and zesty dish that brings together silky pasta, smooth ricotta cheese, and fresh lemon for a simple yet vibrant meal. Perfect for spring and summer, this pasta is quick to make and full of bright, refreshing flavor with a comforting, creamy twist.

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta is bright, creamy, and packed with spring vibes 🌱🍋 With peas, garlic, and Parmesan, it’s the easiest weeknight win! 🍝✨

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Why This Lemon Ricotta Pasta Is the Best

  • Fresh Lemon Flavor: Bright and citrusy, lemon juice and zest wake up the whole dish.
  • Creamy Ricotta Sauce: Ricotta creates a naturally creamy base without needing heavy cream.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes using just a handful of pantry staples.
  • Light but Satisfying: Rich enough to feel indulgent but still refreshing and light.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or a simple lunch that feels elevated, Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a go-to. It’s elegant enough for guests, yet easy enough to whip up when time is short.

Ingredient Notes

  • Lemon: You’ll use the zest and juice to brighten the dish and give it that signature citrusy tang.
  • Pasta: Any short or long pasta works; it’s the hearty base that holds the creamy sauce.
  • Frozen Peas: Add a pop of color and natural sweetness while boosting the freshness.
  • Garlic: Minced for mellow savory depth that complements the lemon and cheese.
  • Butter: SautĂ©ing in butter adds richness and helps blend the flavors together.
  • Whole Milk Ricotta: Creates a creamy, slightly sweet sauce with a luscious texture.
  • Grated Parmesan: Adds umami, nuttiness, and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish—adjust to taste.
  • Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Brings a light heat and peppery contrast to the lemon and cheese.
  • Crushed Red Pepper: Just a pinch for a touch of heat to balance the creamy and tangy notes.

Tips for Making the Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta

  • Use Whole Milk Ricotta: For the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
  • Don’t Overheat the Ricotta: Mix it off the heat to keep it smooth and prevent curdling.
  • Zest First, Then Juice: Zesting before juicing makes prep easier and keeps flavors vibrant.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: A splash of pasta water helps loosen and bind the sauce to the noodles.
  • Add Herbs or Veggies: Toss in fresh basil, spinach, or peas for extra freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Grated Parmesan: A light dusting adds saltiness and depth.
  • With Cracked Black Pepper: Enhances the lemony notes and adds gentle heat.
  • With Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
  • As a Side or Main Dish: Great on its own or paired with grilled chicken or fish.

A Must Try

Creamy, bright, and oh-so-satisfying, Lemon Ricotta Pasta is the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again. It’s proof that with just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes gourmet with minimal effort. Stir, toss, serve—and enjoy the taste of sunshine on a plate!

Be sure to check out these other delicious dinner recipes!

  • Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti

  • Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Italian Sausage

  • Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

  • Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta is bright, creamy, and packed with spring vibes 🌱🍋 With peas, garlic, and Parmesan, it’s the easiest weeknight win! 🍝✨

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta is bright, creamy, and packed with spring vibes 🌱🍋 With peas, garlic, and Parmesan, it’s the easiest weeknight win! 🍝✨
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lemon
  • 8 oz. pasta
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 Tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 pinch crushed red pepper

Instructions
 

  • Start by zesting and juicing your lemon—you’ll want about ½ teaspoon of zest and 1 tablespoon of juice. Set it aside for later.
  • Cook your pasta following the instructions on the package (usually about 10 minutes until tender). Before you drain it, scoop out about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water—it’s liquid gold for the sauce!
  • Here’s a fun trick: pop the frozen peas right into the colander before draining the pasta. When you pour the hot pasta over them, it’ll thaw the peas instantly—easy and genius!
  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Let it cook for just 1–2 minutes until it smells amazing and garlicky—don’t let it brown.
  • Toss the drained pasta and peas into the skillet, then pour in about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water. Give it a good stir to mix everything up, then turn off the heat.
  • Now stir in the ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Keep stirring until it all blends into a creamy, dreamy sauce. If it feels a bit thick, just splash in a bit more of that reserved pasta water.
  • Finish it off with salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Serve it up warm and enjoy every bite!
Keyword Lemon Ricotta Pasta

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This Lemon Ricotta Pasta is bright, creamy, and packed with spring vibes 🌱🍋 With peas, garlic, and Parmesan, it’s the easiest weeknight win! 🍝✨

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

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