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Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach

A quick and delicious pasta dish featuring creamy ricotta and zesty lemon, complemented by fresh spinach. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta of choice
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1 each zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • as needed Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the packet instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Save about a cup of pasta water before draining.
Sautéing Spinach
  1. While the pasta is boiling, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and fresh spinach. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down.
Combining Ingredients
  1. In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the drained pasta to the spinach. Stir in ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired creaminess.
Finishing Touches
  1. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, mixing thoroughly to combine.
Serving
  1. Plate the pasta and top it with grated Parmesan cheese along with additional lemon zest, if desired.

Notes

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to maintain creaminess.