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Irresistibly Easy Ricotta Pasta Recipe: Creamy & Quick Comfort

Irresistibly Easy Ricotta Pasta Recipe: Creamy Cozy Bliss

A creamy and quick comfort dish made with ricotta and garlic, perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz Pasta Choose your favorite shape; gluten-free option works well.

For the Sauce

  • 15 oz Whole-milk Ricotta Cheese Substitute with plant-based ricotta for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for sautéing garlic.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Use vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free twist.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Brightens the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Always opt for fresh lemons.
  • 1/2 cup Pasta Water Reserving before draining pasta for optimal texture.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Optional Additions

  • 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes For a hint of heat.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil For garnish.
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach For extra nutrition.

Instructions
 

How to Make Irresistibly Easy Ricotta Pasta

  • In a large pot of salted water, bring to a boil and cook your preferred pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  • In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Stir in the whole-milk ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan, adding in the lemon zest and juice. Mix well until all ingredients are combined into a wonderfully creamy sauce.
  • Gradually add the reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring until you reach your desired creaminess.
  • Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and if desired, crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Give everything a good stir to combine.
  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently until every piece is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.
  • Dish out your pasta immediately and consider garnishing with fresh basil leaves or extra Parmesan.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 19gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg
Keyword creamy pasta, Easy Dinner, Quick Comfort, Ricotta Pasta, Vegetarian, Weeknight Meal
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