Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; Parmesan cheese, grated for serving

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Inspiration

I’ve created the perfect pasta dish that captures the essence of romance in every bite. This Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta is an exquisite blend of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon, making it a delightful choice for a cozy dinner date or special occasion. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to for impressing loved ones without spending all day in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this quick yet elegant recipe that will surely elevate your dining experience!

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:45:34.675Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I wanted to create a pasta recipe that was both fresh and fulfilling. I found that using ricotta cheese instead of a heavier sauce allows the lemon's brightness to shine through, creating a perfect balance. The creamy texture paired with the citrus notes truly elevate this dish.

One tip I discovered is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water. Adding a sprinkle of it to the sauce helps to bring everything together, lending a silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. It’s these little techniques that make such a difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor that invigorates the senses
Creamy ricotta adds a luxurious texture without being heavy
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for a romantic dinner

The Power of Lemon in Cooking

Lemon is a vibrant ingredient that elevates many dishes, and in this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta, it plays a crucial role. The zest adds a punch of freshness, while the juice brings brightness that balances the creaminess of the ricotta. Using both ensures that the dish has a layered lemon flavor that’s invigorating without being overpowering. When selecting lemons, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, as these tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

For the best results, remember to zest the lemon before juicing it; the zest contains essential oils that contribute to the overall fragrance and flavor profile. If you’re in a pinch, consider substituting with a splash of bottled lemon juice, though fresh will always provide a more vibrant taste. Be cautious not to overdo it, as too much acidity can overshadow the delicate ricotta.

Choosing the Right Pasta

The choice of pasta can significantly affect the overall experience of your dish. For this recipe, I recommend shorter pasta shapes like fusilli or penne, as they will hold the creamy sauce better. However, if you prefer long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, feel free to use that—just be sure to adjust your stirring technique to coat each strand evenly. Cook your pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the heated sauce in the skillet.

A great tip to keep in mind is to reserve that half cup of pasta cooking water. This starchy water is a fantastic thickening agent and can be added progressively to achieve your desired creaminess without making the sauce too runny. Just remember to add it a little at a time, ensuring you maintain the right consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice
1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Parmesan cheese, grated for serving

Once you have all the ingredients, you'll be ready to assemble this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Lemon Ricotta Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Mix in the ricotta, lemon zest, and juice, stirring to combine.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, using the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Enjoy

Plate the pasta, sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your romantic meal!

Now you're ready to enjoy a plate of hearty, creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for an additional layer of flavor and color.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, this pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you reheat, use a skillet on medium-low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce. Gently stir until heated through, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the ricotta to separate and lose its creamy texture.

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can also prepare the ricotta mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day. Just remember to mix in the lemon juice right before serving to preserve its bright flavor. This can be a wonderful time-saver for a date night or special occasion!

Variations and Personal Touches

Feel free to add your personal touch with this recipe. For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes. These not only enhance the nutritional value of the dish but also add a wonderful pop of color. Just sauté them in the skillet after the garlic is fragrant, before adding in the ricotta and lemon mixture.

You can also switch up the cheese by using goat cheese for a tangy twist or even a mixture of ricotta with cream cheese for extra creaminess. For those who enjoy a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added during the sauce preparation to give the dish a pleasant kick without overwhelming the delicate flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work well, though I recommend something like fettuccine or penne for the best texture.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian, but pairing it with a side salad makes it a complete meal!

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I freeze this pasta?

I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the ricotta may change texture when thawed. It's best made fresh.