Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish, especially when it’s brightened up with the fresh, zesty flavors of lemon and the earthy goodness of spinach.
This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a perfect balance of rich and refreshing, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that feels both indulgent and light.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe comes together in a flash, proving that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated.
The combination of creamy ricotta, sharp parmesan, and tangy lemon creates a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, while the fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this dish is sure to impress.
It’s versatile enough to pair with a crisp salad, grilled chicken, or even a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach!!
Ingredients
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups finely shredded parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish if desired)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (plus more for garnish if desired)
- 1 teaspoon grated garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (plus more for garnish if desired)
- ½ pound spaghetti noodles, cooked in approx. 2 quarts salted water (with 2 teaspoons salt)
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach (about 4 to 4½ cups)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- While the pasta is still hot, toss it directly into the ricotta mixture. The heat will help melt the cheese and blend the sauce.
- Add the fresh spinach to the bowl and gently fold it in with the warm pasta until wilted.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of cracked pepper if desired.
Creamy, zesty, and packed with spinach, this easy pasta dish brings bright flavor and comfort to your plate — perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner!
Variations
For a protein boost, consider adding grilled shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy pancetta to this pasta.
These additions not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish heartier, turning it into a more substantial meal.
If you’re vegetarian, try tossing in some cannellini beans or chickpeas for extra texture and plant-based protein.
The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with these additions, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
If you’re looking to switch up the greens, arugula or kale can be used in place of spinach.
Arugula will add a peppery bite, while kale will bring a slightly chewier texture—just be sure to massage the kale first if using it raw, or sauté it briefly to soften. You could also mix in sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
These ingredients add a sweet and tangy depth that complements the lemon and cheese perfectly.
For a gluten-free version, swap the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles. The ricotta sauce is so flavorful that it works well with any base.
If you’re watching your dairy intake, try substituting the ricotta with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or almond-based ricotta.
The result will still be creamy and delicious, with a slightly different but equally satisfying flavor profile.
Tips
To prevent the pasta from sticking together, be sure to reserve a little pasta water before draining. The starchy water can be used to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick, helping it coat the noodles evenly.
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for the brightest flavor.
For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add more zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.
If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount or even sauté it lightly in the olive oil before mixing it into the sauce for a deeper, more mellow garlic flavor.
If your spinach is particularly bulky, you can wilt it slightly before adding it to the pasta.
A quick 30-second blanch in the pasta water or a brief sauté in a pan will soften it without losing its vibrant color.
Don’t overcook the spinach, though—it should still have a bit of texture when you fold it into the dish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The sauce may thicken as it cools, so when reheating, add a splash of water, broth, or a drizzle of olive oil to loosen it up.
Gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately, then combine them just before serving.
This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and becoming dry. Store the sauce and pasta in separate containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, the ricotta sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using, and give it a good stir to recombine any separated liquids.
Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve, as frozen and reheated pasta tends to become mushy.
Conclusion
This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious, allowing you to customize it to your tastes while keeping the prep quick and easy.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or whipping up a solo meal, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
With its creamy texture, bright citrus notes, and vibrant greens, this pasta is a reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation, offering a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
Serve it up, garnish with a little extra parmesan and lemon zest, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of this delightful recipe.