Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 250g ricotta cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Recipes

I absolutely love making this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta for date nights. The bright flavors of lemon combined with creamy ricotta truly elevate an ordinary meal into something special. Each bite is refreshing, and I enjoy it paired with a vibrant green salad or a glass of crisp white wine. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The key is to use fresh ingredients, especially the zest and juice of the lemon, which really bring all the flavors together beautifully.

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:41:34.865Z

When I first decided to make this dish, I was looking for something light yet indulgent. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon truly transformed my usual pasta routine into an extraordinary experience. I found that using fresh lemon juice and zest made a remarkable difference, creating a vibrant flavor that perfectly complements the softness of the ricotta.

Another lesson learned was to reserve some pasta cooking water. This technique helps in creating a smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. I love garnishing it with fresh herbs, which enhances not just the flavor but also the presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright citrus notes that awaken your palate
Creamy texture that balances the dish beautifully
Quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta can significantly affect the overall experience of this dish. I recommend using spaghetti or fettuccine for their ability to hold onto the creamy sauce. When selecting your pasta, opt for high-quality, durum wheat varieties that offer a satisfying bite. Cooking the pasta until al dente not only enhances texture but also allows for better sauce absorption, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in each bite.

Ricotta cheese is the star of the sauce, contributing creaminess and a subtle sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the zesty lemon. When choosing ricotta, look for fresh, whole milk varieties for the best flavor. If you're seeking a lighter option, you can substitute part of the ricotta with Greek yogurt, which will add a tangy note without compromising creaminess.

Cooking Technique Tips

To ensure your lemon ricotta sauce remains smooth and creamy, the key lies in adding the reserved pasta water gradually. Start with about half a cup, and toss the pasta well to see how it combines with the ricotta. This technique not only helps in creating the desired texture but also brings all ingredients together seamlessly. If the sauce looks dry, continue to add a little water until it reaches a glossy consistency.

Be cautious with garlic; you want it tender and fragrant, not burnt. Sautéing it on medium heat for just about a minute until it’s golden will achieve the right flavor without bitterness. If you accidentally overcook the garlic, it may lead to an unpleasant aftertaste in the dish. Remember, the goal is a fragrant base that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the bright lemon flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
250g ricotta cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, cooking for an additional minute.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta back into the pot, along with the ricotta cheese. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve immediately and enjoy the romance of flavors!

Pro Tips

Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Don't overcook the pasta
it should retain a slight bite (al dente) for the perfect texture in your dish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta to a truly special dining experience, consider serving it alongside a fresh, vibrant green salad. A simple mix of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens dressed lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar complements the creamy richness of the pasta beautifully. Additionally, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a delightful crunch.

For those looking to enhance the dish with a bit more protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed vegetables like asparagus or zucchini can be excellent additions. These not only add flavor and texture but also make this dish more filling, perfect for a romantic dinner.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning an intimate dinner and want to minimize time in the kitchen, you can prepare components of this dish in advance. The sauce can be made a few hours ahead and warmed gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta. Just be sure to add a splash of the reserved pasta water when reheating to maintain its creamy consistency.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I suggest warming it slowly on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to regain that creamy texture. Be careful not to overheat; you want to warm it until just heated through to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Is there a vegan alternative?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta cheese with a plant-based alternative made from tofu or cashews.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Certainly! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would make excellent additions to this pasta.