Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or parsley)
- Optional: extra lemon zest and Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh basil (or parsley) and mix well.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate: Serve the creamy lemon ricotta pasta in bowls.
- Garnish: Top with extra lemon zest and Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy warm!