Description
This creamy Ricotta Spinach Lemon Spaghetti is a quick and flavorful Italian-inspired vegetarian pasta dish. Featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a luscious ricotta and Parmesan cheese sauce, brightened with fresh lemon zest and juice, and complemented by sautéed garlic and baby spinach. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt, to taste
Sauce & Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Spinach: Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Pour in the reserved pasta water and stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy spinach and ricotta sauce.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- For extra protein, stir in cooked shredded chicken or white beans.
- Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be reheated with a splash of water to maintain creaminess.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your taste preferences.
