Fresh & Zesty Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

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Creamy, bright, and full of flavor, this Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta is everything a weeknight dinner should be—simple, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. It blends silky ricotta cheese, fresh lemon zest, garlic, and tender spinach with perfectly cooked spaghetti to create a light yet indulgent dish that feels restaurant-quality.

Whether you’re craving something fresh for spring or just need a quick meatless meal idea, this pasta is a versatile go-to. It’s easy to customize and even easier to love, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

This recipe works wonderfully with spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. Long noodles hold the creamy ricotta coating well, giving each bite the perfect balance of lemon and spinach. But if you have penne or rigatoni in the pantry, go ahead and use it—this dish is very forgiving!

Ingredients for the Fresh & Zesty Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

Spaghetti: The base of the dish; long pasta strands are perfect for soaking up the creamy lemon ricotta sauce.

Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess without feeling heavy. Its subtle flavor makes it the ideal canvas for lemon and herbs.

Fresh Spinach: Provides a pop of green, nutrients, and a slightly earthy contrast to the citrus.

Garlic: Infuses the sauce with warm, savory notes.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Brings brightness and zing, balancing the richness of the ricotta.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.

Olive Oil: Used to sauté the garlic and bring all the flavors together.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the other ingredients.

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How To Make the Fresh & Zesty Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Stir in ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the noodles.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet and gently stir until every strand is coated in the creamy, lemony sauce. Add more pasta water if needed for desired consistency.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra lemon zest and Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

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Serving and Storing This Creamy Lemon Pasta

Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor. This pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon. To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to revive the creaminess.

What to Serve With Fresh & Zesty Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and buttery soft on the inside, it’s ideal for soaking up extra sauce.

Grilled Chicken

For added protein, grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts make a great addition.

Roasted Asparagus

Their nutty flavor and texture complement the lemony pasta beautifully.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes offer a refreshing contrast.

White Bean Salad

Adds protein and a bit of earthiness to round out the meal.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and umami-rich, they enhance the pasta’s creamy character.

Sparkling Lemonade

If you’re skipping wine, a zesty beverage will amplify the citrus in the dish.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If this Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta has your taste buds dancing, try these delicious twists next:

• Smoky BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pasta Skillet for bold and cheesy comfort.
• Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight if you’re craving rich, sweet-spicy goodness.
• Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet to turn up the heat.
• Creamy Crab Pasta Salad when you’re in the mood for chilled seafood comfort.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a rustic and hearty dinner.

Save This Pin For Later

Pin this zesty comfort pasta to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it fast when you want something light yet luscious!

Gave it your own twist? Maybe some grilled shrimp or a dash of chili flakes? I’d love to hear your spin—share it in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. You never know what delicious idea you’ll find next.

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