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Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a culinary delight that encapsulates the essence of fresh, vibrant flavors in a simple yet sophisticated dish. This recipe masterfully combines the rich, velvety texture of ricotta cheese with the bright, zesty notes of fresh lemon, creating a pasta experience that is both comforting and refreshing. With its ease of preparation and minimal cooking time, Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta, a dish that perfectly balances richness with refreshing zest. This easy recipe combines velvety ricotta cheese and bright lemon, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Customize it with seasonal veggies, proteins, or fresh herbs to suit your taste. With its quick preparation and satisfying taste, this pasta dish promises to impress and become a favorite in your kitchen.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)

1 cup creamy ricotta cheese

Zest of 1 large lemon

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 2 lemons)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Extra lemon zest for a finishing touch

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the cooking water. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

    Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and (if desired) the red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, avoiding browning the garlic to ensure a fragrant base for the sauce.

      Incorporate Ricotta and Lemon: Reduce the heat to low, then gently stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice into the skillet. Mix well until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If you find the sauce too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until it reaches your desired creaminess.

        Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta absorbs the sauce and the tomatoes warm slightly to enhance their flavor. Adjust the creaminess of the sauce further with more reserved pasta water, if needed.

          Finishing Touches: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and give a gentle stir to ensure the cheese melts into the sauce. Remove from the heat.

            Serve: Carefully plate the pasta, and garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional lemon zest for a pop of freshness. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor experience.

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