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Lemon Ricotta Pasta and Spinach

Lemon Ricotta Pasta and Spinach for a Creamy Comfort Dish

Enjoy the comforting taste of Lemon Ricotta Pasta and Spinach in just 30 minutes, perfect for a quick yet flavorful dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Choose spaghetti, penne, or fusilli based on preference.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese Avoid part-skim or fat-free for best texture.
  • 1/3 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese More for serving; alternatives include Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano.
  • 1 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil More for drizzling.
  • 1 clove Garlic Pressed or grated.
  • 1 Lemon Zested and juiced.
  • Salt & Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal preference.
For the Greens
  • 8 oz Baby Spinach Leaves Rinse well before use.
For Serving
  • 3 Lemon Wedges Optional, for additional zest.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water, add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
  2. Stir in baby spinach leaves into the boiling water for the last minute until wilted.
  3. Drain the pasta and spinach, shaking gently to remove excess water. Return to the pot.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest and juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  5. Pour the sauce over the pasta and spinach, adding reserved pasta water gradually to desired creaminess.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and optional lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 3500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.

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