Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 150g ricotta cheese; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh basil or arugula for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love preparing this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta for a cozy dinner at home. The creamy ricotta combined with the bright lemon flavor creates a dish that's fresh yet indulgent. It’s simple to whip up, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions. The addition of lemon zest elevates the dish, giving it a delightful aroma that fills my kitchen. Each bite feels like a little escape to Italy, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:19:13.470Z

When I first tried making this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The creamy richness of the ricotta complements the tartness of the lemon so beautifully. I once made this for a last-minute date night and it was an absolute hit. The best part? You can elevate it further with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a touch of cracked pepper, enhancing the flavors even more.

One key tip I learned is to mix the lemon juice and zest in your ricotta while the pasta cooks; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully before tossing everything together. I also love adding a handful of arugula at the end for a peppery bite and added freshness — it truly takes this pasta dish to the next level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique twist on traditional pasta with a creamy texture.
Bright, zesty flavors that uplift your dinner table.
Quick and easy, perfect for impressing your special someone.

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the vibrant flavor profile of this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Fresh lemons not only impart a bright, zesty flavor but also add an aromatic quality that enhances the overall dining experience. I recommend squeezing the juice right before adding it to the ricotta mixture to ensure maximum freshness. If you can find organic lemons, it's worth the investment, as their zest is more fragrant and flavorful.

Similarly, choosing high-quality ricotta cheese makes a significant difference in the dish's creamy texture. Look for ricotta that has a smooth consistency and a rich, milky flavor. I prefer using whole milk ricotta for its richness, but if you're aiming for a lighter dish, part-skim options work just fine. Just keep in mind that the flavors may be slightly milder.

Technique Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking the spaghetti to al dente is essential for achieving the best texture in this dish. Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite, which helps it hold up against the creamy ricotta mixture without becoming mushy. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, but it’s essential to check a minute or two before the package's suggested time. Remember to taste the pasta to gauge its doneness.

When combining the cooked pasta with the ricotta mixture, avoid excessive heat after draining. It's best to work quickly and toss with the residual heat of the pasta. If the sauce feels thick, I recommend adding just a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach a silky, glossy consistency. This helps create a cohesive dish that clings beautifully to each strand of spaghetti.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful pasta experience.

Ingredients for Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

200g spaghetti
150g ricotta cheese
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or arugula for garnish

Ensure everything is ready before cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

While the pasta is cooking, in a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined and smooth.

Combine and Toss

Once the pasta is drained, return it to the pot. Add the ricotta mixture and olive oil, tossing to combine. If the mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is achieved.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs like basil or arugula.

Enjoy your delicious meal with a side salad or a glass of white wine!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add crispy pancetta or a handful of peas for a pop of color and flavor.

Customizing Your Dish

This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. For a vegan version, consider substituting the ricotta cheese with almond or cashew ricotta, which can deliver a similarly creamy texture. Additionally, swapping spaghetti for gluten-free pasta varieties ensures those with dietary restrictions can also enjoy this delightful dish.

If you're looking to boost the nutritional value, adding in some sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes can introduce additional flavor and color. These can be incorporated right after tossing the pasta with the ricotta mixture, allowing them to warm through and meld with the creamy sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta can be made ahead and refrigerated for a quick meal later in the week. To store, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water or olive oil to revive its creamy texture.

If you plan to freeze it, be aware that the ricotta may change texture upon thawing. For best results, I recommend freezing the pasta without the sauce and preparing the ricotta mixture fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it again. As a rule of thumb, aim to consume it within a month for optimal flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any shape of pasta will work well with this recipe.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for ricotta?

Yes, you can use tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a nice kick.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and cook the pasta ahead, then mix just before serving.