Discover the Secret to Creamy Lemon Pasta – Ready in 25 Minutes
When life gives you lemons, make pasta! As citrus season approaches, there’s no better way to savor these tangy fruits than with a bowl of creamy lemon pasta recipe. This recipe combines the vibrant zest and juice of lemons with creamy ricotta cheese and Parmesan, creating a pasta dish that’s light, tangy, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe: Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Night 🍝
This creamy lemon pasta recipe has it all: a luscious, smooth sauce, a balance of savory and citrusy flavors, and an incredibly easy prep time. It’s the ideal dish for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
The secret? A clever combination of ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and pasta water to create a sauce that’s creamy yet light. Add a bit of lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper, and you have a dish that will make your taste buds sing.
Add a Touch of Extra Flavor: Customize Your Creamy Lemon Pasta
Elevate your creamy lemon pasta with easy customizations that take this dish to the next level! Whether you prefer adding a protein, a pop of color with fresh veggies, or a hint of spice, this pasta is versatile enough to suit any taste. Try adding grilled chicken, sautéed spinach, or a dash of red pepper flakes to make it even more delicious. Perfect for personalizing and making every bite just right.
The Nutritional Benefits of Lemon Pasta 🍋
Not only is this pasta delicious, but it also offers some great nutritional perks:
- Ricotta: Packed with protein and lower in fat, it’s the perfect choice for a creamy sauce without the guilt.
- Lemon: A great source of vitamin C, lemon helps boost your immune system while adding a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Pasta: A satisfying source of energy, it keeps you full longer.
How to Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce
The key to this recipe lies in how you prepare the sauce. Unlike traditional heavy cream-based sauces, this one uses ricotta cheese mixed with Parmesan and lemon juice for a lighter but equally creamy result. To make the sauce extra smooth and velvety, blend the ingredients in a food processor with a bit of pasta water. The outcome is a sauce that clings beautifully to your noodles, making this creamy lemon pasta recipe a delicious and satisfying dish.
Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe: Easy Customizations to Make This Dish Your Own 🥦
What makes this recipe even better is how customizable it is. You can easily tweak it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Add veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
- Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even salmon for a more filling meal.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic will give the dish a little kick that complements the lemon perfectly.
Full Recipe: Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe
Pasta al Limone Recipe: A Quick, Elegant Dish for Every Occasion
Difficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes25
minutes338
kcalA quick and creamy pasta dish made with fresh lemon, ricotta, and Parmesan, perfect for busy nights. This comforting and tangy creamy lemon pasta recipe will become your go-to for weeknight dinners, offering a burst of citrus flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) pasta of your choice
1 cup (240 g) ricotta cheese
1/3 cup (40 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Zest and juice of 1 to 2 lemons
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 1/4 tsp kosher salt (divided) and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season with 2 teaspoons of salt. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Make the sauce:
While the pasta cooks, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, and juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Sauté the garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
Add the ricotta mixture to the skillet, along with 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth. Once the pasta is drained, add it to the skillet and toss for 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.
- Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
- Add baby spinach, peas, or cooked chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.
The sauce is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
