Description
A quick and vibrant pasta dish combining ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and zesty lemon for a delightful meal ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add your preferred pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Garlic: While your pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, followed by minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
- Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and add ricotta, lemon juice, and a touch of lemon zest. Stir until well combined. If the mixture seems thick, gradually add your reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta to the ricotta mixture. Gently toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Plate your pasta and top with additional lemon zest, fresh herbs, or grated cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
For a protein boost, feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pasta, lemon, ricotta, spinach, quick meal, vegetarian, easy recipe