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

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love whipping up this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta for a cozy dinner date. The bright flavors of fresh lemon paired with creamy ricotta create a dish that feels indulgent yet light. It’s incredibly simple to make, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. With a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a hint of garlic, this dish elevates a regular evening into a memorable culinary experience. Trust me, once you try it, you'll understand why it has become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:58:04.854Z

When I first created this dish, I was looking for something quick but sophisticated, perfect for a romantic evening at home. The moment I combined the creamy ricotta with the zest of fresh lemons, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The cheese adds a wonderful richness, while the lemon brightens every bite, making it a perfect pairing.

I recommend using fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the flavor even further. This small addition really brings the dish together, adding a burst of freshness that complements the creamy base beautifully. Don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, fresh lemon flavor enhances the creamy richness of ricotta
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Versatile recipe that can be paired with various pasta shapes and toppings

      

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

Creating a creamy and velvety sauce is key to making this dish truly special. When you combine the ricotta with the pasta, the texture should be smooth rather than clumpy. If you find that your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water, a little at a time. This not only thins out the sauce but also helps bind the flavors and ensures the pasta is coated evenly. The goal is a silky consistency that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

The warmth of the pot is essential when mixing in the ricotta and lemon. As you toss everything together, the ricotta will gently heat and become creamy without cooking. You want to avoid high heat here; a medium setting allows the cheese to meld without curdling. Visual cues matter, so look for the sauce to become glossy and smooth, showing that it’s ready to be served.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs are an essential finishing touch that brightens up the dish. Using fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the flavors significantly. I recommend chopping the herbs just before garnishing; this preserves their aromatic qualities. As for quantities, about ¼ cup of chopped herbs should suffice for a balanced taste without overpowering the lemon and ricotta. If you’re a fan of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can also be a delightful addition, offering a spicy kick that complements the citrusy notes.

Another key aspect to consider is the way you incorporate the herbs. Instead of simply scattering them on top, try folding them into the pasta just before serving. This method helps to release their essential oils, making the dish even more fragrant and flavorful while ensuring each bite benefits from the herbaceous notes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your dish shine:

Ingredients

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

These ingredients combine to create a truly delightful dish.

Instructions

Here’s how to create this delicious Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Sauce

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and juice to the pot. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Lemon Ricotta Pasta for a perfect romantic meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms to your pasta.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're considering making this pasta ahead of time, it's essential to keep the sauce and pasta separate until you're ready to serve. Cooked pasta can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but ricotta-based sauces tend to thicken as they cool. To reheat, add a splash of reserved pasta water to bring the creaminess back and heat over low heat while stirring gently.

Leftover servings can be warmed in the microwave; just ensure to cover the dish to retain moisture. If you find your sauce has become too thick, whisk in a small amount of fresh lemon juice or pasta water to bring back that luscious texture. Adjust the seasoning to revive the flavors, as they can mellow during storage.

Variations to Try

This Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta lends itself well to variations, making it an ideal canvas for your creativity. For a protein addition, consider sautéing some shrimp or grilled chicken to complement the dish's flavors. Cook these protein options in the same pan used for the garlic to capture more depth in flavor before adding the pasta.

If you're looking to switch up the pasta shape, whole wheat or gluten-free varieties work wonderfully. The only adjustment you'd need to make is to keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta types can vary significantly. Additionally, consider using seasonal vegetables like asparagus or peas; they can be lightly sautéed and tossed in for added texture and nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian and full of flavor!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.