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To achieve the perfect Creamy Ricotta Lemon Pasta, it’s essential to choose the right ingredients. The foundation of this dish starts with your choice of pasta. While both spaghetti and linguine are popular options, they offer distinct textures and flavors that can influence the overall experience of the dish.

Creamy Ricotta Lemon Pasta

Discover the delightful blend of flavors in Creamy Ricotta Lemon Pasta, a perfect dish for any occasion. This recipe combines the rich creaminess of ricotta with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon, creating a satisfying and refreshing meal. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s ideal for family dinners or impressing guests. Elevate your cooking with this delicious pasta that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti or linguine

1 cup ricotta cheese

Zest of 1 large lemon

1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the rest.

    Create the Sauce Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute), taking care not to burn the garlic.

      Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

        Mix Sauce with Pasta: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Gradually add the ricotta mixture, stirring gently until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired creaminess is reached.

          Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with more grated Parmesan and fresh herbs. Drizzle with a little additional olive oil if desired. Serve immediately.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings