Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 150g spaghetti or fettuccine; 200g ricotta cheese; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 30g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta on special evenings. The bright, zesty flavors of the lemon combined with the creamy ricotta create a dish that feels both elegant and indulgent. As I cook, the aroma of lemon fills the kitchen, making the atmosphere feel festive. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings loved ones together and ensures a wonderful time at the dinner table. Within 20 minutes, you can impress your partner with this delightful dish that's perfect for any romantic occasion.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:52:08.513Z

When I first tried my hand at making pasta from scratch, I wanted to keep it simple yet flavorful. That's when I discovered how well ricotta works with fresh lemon juice and zest. This combination is a game-changer! It brightens up the creamy texture of the ricotta, providing a lively contrast that I can't resist.

The secret I found is in the timing—cooking the pasta just right and adding the sauce immediately ensures a seamless blend of flavors. With every bite, I'm transported to a cozy Italian restaurant, making it a go-to dish for my romantic dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, zesty lemon flavor enhances the creamy ricotta
Quick to make, perfect for last-minute romantic dinners
The perfect balance of textures—creamy pasta with a hint of freshness

      

The Magic of Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese plays a pivotal role in this dish, offering a creamy base that complements the zesty lemon beautifully. Its mild flavor acts as a canvas for the bright citrus notes while lending the pasta a silky texture. When mixing the ricotta with lemon zest and juice, aim for a homogenous blend; this ensures each bite of pasta will be infused with that delightful creaminess tempered by refreshing citrus.

For those who prefer a lighter option, low-fat ricotta can be substituted without sacrificing too much of the dish's overall richness. Just remember that the creaminess might be slightly reduced, so adding a touch more pasta water can help achieve that desired glossy finish in the sauce.

Achieving the Perfect Pasta

Cooking the spaghetti or fettuccine to that ideal 'al dente' stage is crucial for the best texture. Usually, this means boiling the pasta for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. The pasta will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the warm ricotta sauce. Remember, reserving that 1/2 cup of pasta water is key; the starchy liquid can be your best friend in achieving a creamy sauce without additional cream.

When combining the hot pasta with the ricotta mixture, toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring that every strand is coated. If you notice the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. This is a great way to incorporate that starchy goodness to achieve the perfect consistency.

Elevating Your Dish

Garnishing with fresh basil leaves not only adds a pop of color but brings an aromatic freshness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the ricotta and the brightness of the lemon. If basil isn't your favorite, consider substitution with arugula or spinach, which can offer a different but equally enjoyable finish.

For a little extra depth, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving. These small touches can elevate the flavor profile and make your Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta even more enticing. Also, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine or a light salad for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

150g spaghetti or fettuccine
200g ricotta cheese
1 lemon (zest and juice)
30g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Save 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the hot pasta to the ricotta mixture. Toss well to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ricotta mixture ahead of time. Simply combine the ricotta, lemon zest, and juice, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This can save you time on a special evening, allowing you to just cook the pasta and toss everything together when it’s time to eat.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Be careful not to overheat; you want to warm it just enough to enjoy the creamy texture again without cooking the ricotta further.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations

For those who are gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta variety such as rice or quinoa pasta. The cooking times might vary slightly, so make sure to follow package instructions for al dente results. You can also explore whole grain or legume-based pasta for a healthier twist, adding nutty flavors and additional fiber to your meal.

If dairy is a concern, try substituting the ricotta with a vegan cream cheese alternative or a homemade cashew cream. Blend soaked cashews with lemon juice and a splash of plant-based milk until smooth for a delicious, dairy-free creaminess that complements the dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta type you prefer will work fine, such as penne or linguine.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

While it's best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I substitute ricotta with another cheese?

Yes, mascarpone or cream cheese can be good substitutes to achieve a similar creamy texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

You can use cashew cream or a vegan ricotta alternative as a substitute for ricotta cheese.