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LEMON RICOTTA PASTA & SPINACH

Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach: A Zesty, Creamy Delight

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta & Spinach is a quick and delightful vegetarian dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Choose any type you love, such as spaghetti or penne;
For the Sauce
  • 15 oz Whole-Milk Ricotta Adds creaminess that elevates the dish; Greek yogurt is a great substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances flavors with umami; sprinkle more on top when serving.
  • 1 whole Lemon (Zest and Juice) Infuses the dish with fresh acidity; best with unwaxed lemons.
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil Creates a smooth sauce; drizzle more for added richness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Opt for fresh garlic for a stronger flavor.
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper Essential for enhancing taste; season to your liking.
For the Greens
  • 5 oz Fresh Baby Spinach Adds vibrant color and nutrients; swap for kale or arugula.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Mix until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In the last minute of cooking, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and add spinach to the pot. Wilt for 1 minute.
  4. Drain the pasta and spinach. Return to the pot over low heat.
  5. Add the ricotta mixture, stirring gently. Gradually pour in reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is versatile; customize it with your favorite greens or proteins. Enjoy leftovers within two days, stored in an airtight container.

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