When you want a comforting pasta recipe that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light, this lemon ricotta pasta is the perfect choice. It blends the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the bright zing of fresh lemon, creating one of the best summer pasta recipes you can make in under 20 minutes. This dish is great for quick easy family dinners, date nights, or a sophisticated lunch idea when you want something fast and flavorful.
Why Lemon Ricotta Pasta Works So Well
Ricotta cheese’s mild, creamy texture forms a perfect base for a homemade pasta sauce. When paired with fresh lemon juice and zest, it becomes light, tangy, and slightly sweet — ideal for heart healthy lunch or light dinner ideas.
A drizzle of olive oil salad dressing flavor, a sprinkle of parmesan, and a touch of garlic complete this easy pasta recipe that works beautifully for spring and summer meals.
Ingredients List
For 4 servings, you’ll need:
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12 oz spaghetti (or linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta)
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1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
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½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
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Zest and juice of 2 large lemons
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
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¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
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Optional: crushed red pepper flakes
This easy lemon ricotta pasta can also be adapted into a low calorie lunch meal prep or combined with veggies for a healthy vegetarian lunch idea.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Ricotta Sauce
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In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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Ricotta cheese
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Parmesan cheese
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Zest of 2 lemons
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Olive oil
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Salt and black pepper
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Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
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Heat a skillet over medium heat.
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Add olive oil and minced garlic.
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Cook until fragrant (about 1 minute), being careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
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Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with garlic.
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Reduce heat to low.
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Add the ricotta-lemon mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
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If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until silky and smooth.
Step 5: Serve
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Plate the pasta in shallow bowls.
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Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or extra parmesan.
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Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Flavor Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or serve with shrimp pasta for protein.
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Mediterranean Style: Include sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or capers.
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Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or salmon — ideal for healthy quick meals for weight loss.
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Herb Upgrade: Try dill or tarragon for aromatic freshness.
Storage & Reheating Tips
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Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat gently with a splash of pasta water or milk to restore creaminess.
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Avoid freezing (ricotta may separate).
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
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Using low-fat ricotta → results in grainy sauce.
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Adding sauce over high heat → may curdle the cheese.
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Not reserving pasta water → crucial for texture.
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Over-lemoning → balance zest and juice.
Why This Recipe Works
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Quick and easy – ready in 20 minutes.
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Combines creamy and bright flavors perfectly.
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Uses simple pantry staples.
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Adaptable for protein or veggie add-ins.
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Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights.
Final Thoughts
This easy lemon ricotta pasta shows how simple ingredients create extraordinary meals. The creamy ricotta base and fresh lemon brightness make it perfect for healthy dinner ideas, light summer lunches, or even a romantic dinner for two.
Serve with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or a glass of white wine for the complete meal.
