Craving a creamy pasta without heavy cream? This 20-minute lemon ricotta pasta is rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor.
Servings 4servings
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Ingredients
16ouncesyour pasta of choice
1cupwhole milk ricotta cheese
1cupfinely grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1tablespoonolive oil
Saltto taste
Freshly ground black pepperto taste
1cupreserved pasta water
Fresh basilfor garnish
Instructions
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta cooks, combine the ricotta, Parmigiano Reggiano, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a large serving bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust with more salt, black pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Add the hot pasta to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, tossing continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. (You likely won't need the entire cup of pasta water, add just enough to reach your desired consistency.)
Top with more grated Parmigiano Reggiano, pepper, and fresh basil. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition information is an estimate only and will vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients you use. Use as a general guideline rather than a guarantee.