There’s something magically simple about a bowl of pasta when it comes together in just 15 minutes. With bright lemon, creamy ricotta, and a hint of garlic, this dish feels luxurious without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re racing the clock on a busy weeknight or want a fuss-free meal that impresses, this lemon ricotta pasta has you covered.
In this guide, we’ll walk through every step from gathering ingredients to serving a bowlful of creamy, tangy goodness. No special skills are required—just a few pantry staples, a pot of boiling water, and enthusiasm for a fast, delicious dinner. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
You’ll Need:
– 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite shape)
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Optional fresh herbs: basil or parsley for garnish
Step 2: Bring Water to a Rolling Boil
Fill a large pot with water and set it over high heat. Generously salt the water—this is your only chance to season the pasta itself. While you wait, prep your other ingredients so they’re ready to go.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Ricotta Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and plenty of black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. If the mixture seems too thick, add a tablespoon of pasta water later to loosen it up.
Step 4: Cook Pasta Al Dente
Once the water is boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions for al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste a piece a minute before the timer goes off to ensure it has a bit of bite.
Step 5: Reserve Pasta Water
Before draining, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid is pure gold for adjusting sauce consistency. Drain the pasta and immediately return it to the pot off the heat.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the ricotta mixture to the hot pasta. Stir vigorously, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until every strand is luxuriously coated. The sauce should cling to the noodles, creating a silky texture.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Give your pasta a final taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Divide into bowls and finish with a drizzle of olive oil, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve immediately while it’s wonderfully warm and creamy.
In just 15 minutes, you’ve transformed a few simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality pasta that’s bright, creamy, and utterly satisfying. This lemon ricotta recipe is perfect for nights when you crave flavor without the fuss. Enjoy every bite—and don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to quick dinner!