Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon creates a delightful balance that feels both refreshing and indulgent. The best part is how effortlessly it comes together; in just under 30 minutes, I can serve a deliciously satisfying dish that impresses my family and friends. Plus, the simplicity of using just a handful of ingredients makes it a go-to recipe whenever I'm short on time but still want something special.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:46:19.887Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of mixing ricotta with lemon juice for pasta, I was skeptical but intrigued. After trying it out, I realized the creamy texture of ricotta combined with the brightness of lemon truly elevates a simple pasta dish. It’s become a staple in my kitchen because it’s light yet satisfying, and I can whip it up in no time.

One tip I’d recommend is to use freshly grated lemon zest; it amplifies the flavor tremendously. I also love adding a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving to enhance the freshness. Trust me; this pasta dish quickly turns any ordinary meal into something extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta pairs beautifully with vibrant lemon for a fresh taste.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
A versatile dish that can be dressed up with vegetables or proteins.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The main star of this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is, of course, the ricotta cheese. Its creamy texture adds richness, helping to balance the bright acidity of the lemon. When selecting ricotta, opt for a high-quality fresh brand for the best flavor. You might also consider using part-skim ricotta if you prefer a lighter profile while still enjoying that signature creaminess.

Lemon shines in this recipe, not just through its juice but also its zest. The zest releases essential oils, infusing the dish with a concentrated lemon flavor. Make sure to use a vegetable peeler or a microplane to zest the lemon without including the bitter white pith. This will ensure your sauce has a refreshing twist rather than a sharp bitterness.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial. This simply means that the pasta should still have a slight firmness when bitten. To achieve this, I recommend checking the package instructions about one or two minutes before the timer goes off. Additionally, don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

When mixing the pasta with the ricotta sauce, do this over low heat if the sauce feels too thick. This gentle heat will help marry the flavors without overcooking the pasta. If you find that the sauce becomes too runny, allow it to reduce a bit on low heat while stirring continuously to prevent sticking.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up a delicious Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta!

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, mix together ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the ricotta mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired creaminess is reached.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious dish!

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach into the pasta before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about this dish is its adaptability for meal prep. You can prepare the ricotta sauce ahead of time—just mix it without the pasta and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply cook the pasta and toss it with the prepared sauce. If you need to reheat the sauce, warm it gently in a pan, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, add a touch more lemon juice and some pasta water to restore creaminess. This dish does not freeze well, as the ricotta can separate and change texture, so it's best to enjoy it fresh.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is absolutely delicious as is, consider adding sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes work well here; just cook them briefly until they are tender before adding the pasta and sauce together.

You can also incorporate proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier option. Simply prepare the protein separately and mix it in with the pasta at the end. This flexibility means you can customize the dish each time you make it while still enjoying that creamy, lemony goodness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add more fiber and a nutty flavor to the dish.

→ How long does the sauce last in the fridge?

The ricotta mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese in place of ricotta, although the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Substitute ricotta with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use your favorite plant-based pasta.