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When it comes to easy yet elegant meals, Luscious Lemon & Ricotta Dream Pasta stands out as a shining star. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of fresh and vibrant flavors. The combination of creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to elevate a weeknight meal, this pasta recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Creamy Ricotta Lemon Pasta

Experience the vibrant flavors of Luscious Lemon & Ricotta Dream Pasta, a dish that combines creamy ricotta with zesty lemon for a refreshing twist on classic pasta. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is easy to prepare and showcases fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and baby spinach. With each bite, enjoy the balance of richness and brightness that makes this pasta a culinary delight. Elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests with this elegant meal.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)

1 cup fresh ricotta cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 lemon (zest and juice)

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup baby spinach

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it is al dente. Just before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later use. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Prepare the Sauce:

        In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.

          Add Cherry Tomatoes:

            Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. The tomatoes should soften and begin to release their juices, creating a luscious base for your sauce.

              Incorporate Baby Spinach:

                Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and vibrant green.

                  Create the Creamy Base:

                    Lower the heat and add the fresh ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir gently until all ingredients are combined and form a creamy sauce.

                      Combine Pasta and Sauce:

                        Introduce the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing gently to combine. If the mixture appears too thick, gradually add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you achieve a desired creamy consistency.

                          Season to Perfection:

                            Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and toss everything together for a well-distributed flavor.

                              Serve with Flair:

                                Immediately plate the delicious pasta. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves. For an extra touch of zest, feel free to sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest on top.

                                  Enjoy Your Creation:

                                    Indulge in your warm and creamy ricotta lemon pasta for a delightful and satisfying dining experience.

                                      Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4