Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta because it’s both simple and luxurious. The creamy ricotta beautifully melds with the bright, zesty lemon, creating a dish that feels special yet is quick enough for a weeknight dinner. Each bite transports me to a sunlit terrace overlooking the sea. This pasta dish, adorned with fresh herbs, is perfect for date nights or whenever I want to treat myself and loved ones to something delightful without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:46:14.962Z

When I first discovered the combination of lemon and ricotta in pasta, it changed my culinary game forever. The tartness of the lemon cuts through the creamy richness of the ricotta, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. To enhance the flavors, I always recommend using fresh, high-quality ingredients; it truly makes a difference in taste!

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily add seasonal vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. Personally, I love folding in some sautéed spinach or grilled shrimp to elevate the dish even further. This meal is perfect for impressing guests while also being a breeze to throw together on busy evenings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor that invigorates your palate
Creamy ricotta that adds a luxurious touch
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for special occasions

      

Unlocking the Flavor Profile

The bright acidity of lemon is a key player in making this dish feel refreshing and invigorating. When choosing your lemons, opt for ones that feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant yellow color. The zest not only lends flavor but also aromatic oils that elevate the whole dish. Be sure to use a microplane to get fine zest without the bitter white pith, which can overwhelm the delicate ricotta's creaminess.

Ricotta cheese is not just a base for this sauce; it adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the acidity of the lemon. It’s important to choose fresh ricotta for the best results. If you find the ricotta too dense, a splash of milk or a bit of the reserved pasta water can help achieve that luxurious, silky consistency. For a toasted flavor, consider lightly warming the ricotta sauce on low heat before combining it with the pasta.

Texture and Serving Tips

The pasta should be cooked just until al dente, which typically takes 8-10 minutes depending on the type. This firmness is crucial as it allows the pasta to hold up against the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Remember to reserve that cup of pasta water before draining; it acts as a life-saver for adjusting the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it clings beautifully to each strand.

For an elevated presentation, serve this dish in shallow bowls and top it with fresh herbs and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of earthy flavor that rounds out the dish. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top right before serving enhances both the flavor and visual appeal. Consider pairing with a crisp white wine to complement the lemony notes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful culinary experience:

Ingredients

300g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Once you have your ingredients, you’re ready to create this delightful pasta dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy sauce.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the hot pasta to the ricotta mixture, and toss until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your meal and the smiles it brings!

Pro Tips

For a touch of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or toss in some asparagus or peas for added texture and nutrition.

Make-Ahead Options

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the ricotta mixture a few hours in advance. Store it in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld—just remember to mix it gently before combining with the pasta to ensure that it returns to its creamy texture. It's also a good idea to keep your cooked pasta slightly underdone if you plan to heat it up later, as it will continue cooking when reheated.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently and cover for a few minutes to allow steam to help warm through without drying it out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to maintain the creamy texture but make it dairy-free, consider using a cashew or almond ricotta alternative. You can make this by blending soaked nuts with a bit of lemon juice and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just like traditional ricotta, this alternative works beautifully with the lemon.

For a different taste profile, you can swap the lemon for lime or even use orange zest. This will create a different, yet equally delightful, citrusy experience. Adjust the acidity accordingly with the corresponding juice, and feel free to experiment with different herbs. Thyme or mint can bring a refreshing twist to the dish as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute mascarpone or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water.

→ Can I freeze this pasta dish?

It's best to consume it fresh, but if you must, freeze without the herbs and cheese, and add those when reheating.