This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!) is a delightfully easy dish that celebrates the bright flavors of lemon and the creaminess of ricotta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this vegetarian recipe comes together faster than you can boil the pasta. Each bite offers a refreshing taste, making it suitable for everything from casual dinners to elegant gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
- Flavorful: The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon creates a vibrant sauce that elevates simple pasta.
- Vegetarian Delight: A delicious option for vegetarians, packed with flavor without any meat.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish; it pairs well with various proteins and sides.
- Minimal Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze after enjoying this tasty meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Timer
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently.
- Skillet: Needed to create the luscious browned butter and lemon sauce that brings this dish together.
- Colander: Helps drain pasta while reserving essential cooking water for the sauce.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the ricotta cheese with other ingredients before mixing with pasta.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 pound farfalle pasta (or any other short pasta)
- salt for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 3 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
- 2 tsp lemon zest and juice (I used 1 large organic)
For the Creamy Mixture
- 1 cup whole fat ricotta
- sea salt for sprinkling
- freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup finely shredded Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
- 2 Tablespoons Italian parsley (chopped (not the stems))
How to Make Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!)
Step 1: Boil Water
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Add the pasta to the boiling water. Set a timer and cook until it’s not quite al dente—about one minute less than directed on the package. This allows it to finish cooking in the sauce later.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
With just a few minutes left on your timer, begin preparing your sauce. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it starts to brown. Once browned, stir in lemon juice and zest along with one tablespoon of olive oil.
Step 4: Reserve Pasta Water
Drain your pasta using a colander but be sure to reserve about ½ cup plus two extra tablespoons of pasta water. Add half a cup of this starchy water into your skillet with the browned butter.
Step 5: Add Pasta to Sauce
Carefully transfer the drained pasta into your skillet over medium-high heat. Stir well to coat in the buttery lemon sauce, cooking together for about two minutes, ensuring it reaches al dente texture.
Step 6: Prep Ricotta in a Bowl
In a large serving bowl, combine ricotta cheese and grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Mix well, adding a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Incorporate one or two tablespoons of reserved pasta water to help bind everything together.
Step 7: Combine Ricotta with Pasta
Transfer the buttery lemon-coated pasta into your bowl containing ricotta cheese. Stir gently until everything is well combined into a creamy consistency. Adjust with more pasta water or olive oil if necessary.
Step 8: Season
Taste your creamy mixture for seasoning by adding salt if required, along with freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
Step 9: Serve
Dish out into bowls and finish by sprinkling chopped Italian parsley and additional grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese on top if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!)
Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can elevate your meal by serving it with various accompaniments that complement its rich and zesty flavors.
Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Mint: A sprinkle of fresh basil or mint can add a refreshing touch to the dish.
- Chives: Chopped chives give a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Grated Cheese
- Parmesan: A generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the pasta’s creaminess.
- Pecorino Romano: This sharp cheese adds an interesting contrast to the lemon ricotta blend.
Protein Additions
- Grilled Chicken: Adding slices of grilled chicken makes this dish heartier and perfect for dinner.
- Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp can provide a delightful seafood twist.
Olive Oil Drizzle
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle right before serving adds richness and depth to the flavors.
Lemon Wedges
- Fresh Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus when desired.
How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!)
To achieve the best version of this dish, keep these tips in mind for flawless execution every time.
- Timing is key: Always check your pasta a minute before it’s supposed to be done; it should be just shy of al dente.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh ricotta and good olive oil, as they significantly impact the flavor.
- Don’t skip the pasta water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce, making it creamy and luscious.
- Balance flavors: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice according to your preference for brightness.
- Fresh herbs matter: Always use freshly chopped herbs for garnish to enhance both taste and presentation.
- Serve immediately: This dish tastes best fresh off the stove; serve it hot for optimal flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!)
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light complement.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta nicely.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles alongside your pasta for added texture.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil gives a refreshing tang that pairs well with creamy pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!), it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente by cooking it just a minute less than the package instructions suggest.
- Not reserving enough pasta water: If you skip saving some pasta water, you might miss out on creating that creamy sauce. Always set aside at least ½ cup of starchy water before draining.
- Skipping the browning step: Browning the butter adds depth and flavor to the dish. Don’t rush this step; let it turn golden before adding lemon juice and zest.
- Using low-fat ricotta: Low-fat ricotta can make the sauce less creamy. Opt for whole fat ricotta for the best results in texture and taste.
- Neglecting seasoning: A little extra salt and freshly ground black pepper can elevate your dish. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Temperature: Keep in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
Freezing Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!)
- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!)
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently. Add reserved pasta water for creaminess as required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:
How do I make my Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!) more flavorful?
Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance flavors beautifully. You can also incorporate garlic or chili flakes for added depth.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is used here, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!) suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions to keep it fresh.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This vegetarian dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!) is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Its creamy texture combined with zesty lemon makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or herbs to make it truly your own!
Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Under 10 Minutes!)
Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a delightful dish that transforms a few simple ingredients into a vibrant and delicious meal in under 10 minutes. This quick vegetarian recipe combines the rich creaminess of ricotta cheese with zesty lemon flavors, creating a luscious sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Ideal for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, this dish is both satisfying and elegant. With minimal cleanup required and versatile serving options, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound farfalle pasta (or any short pasta)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup whole-fat ricotta cheese
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest and juice
- ½ cup finely shredded Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped Italian parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until just shy of al dente.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat until browned, then stir in lemon juice and zest with olive oil.
- Reserve some pasta water, drain the pasta, and add it to the skillet, tossing to coat well.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with Parmigiano Reggiano, olive oil, salt, and a little reserved pasta water.
- Combine the pasta with the ricotta mixture until creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately with fresh parsley sprinkled on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
