Ricotta Lemon Pasta with Arugula

Short Description

Ricotta Lemon Pasta with Arugula is a delightful dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the brightness of lemon and the peppery bite of fresh arugula. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that’s both light and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and arugula adds a refreshing zest to the creamy ricotta sauce.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with various pasta shapes and additional ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Light yet Satisfying: Offers a creamy texture without being overly heavy, perfect for any season.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb short pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from 1 to 2 lemons), plus extra lemon wedges for serving
• 2 cups arugula
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil for serving
• Red pepper flakes for serving (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for serving (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Adjust the Consistency: Gradually add about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to the sauce, stirring until smooth and creamy. Add more pasta water as needed to reach the desired consistency.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the cooked pasta to the pot with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Add Arugula: Stir in the arugula until it wilts slightly from the heat of the pasta.
6. Serve: Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy prosciutto for added protein.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Enhance the dish with sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or steamed asparagus.
• Herb Substitutions: Replace basil with fresh parsley or chives for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat according to your preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well. However, long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine can also be used.

Can I use part-skim ricotta instead of whole-milk ricotta?

Yes, but whole-milk ricotta provides a creamier texture. Part-skim ricotta will result in a slightly less rich sauce.

Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch but may not provide the same brightness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This pasta is best served immediately. If making ahead, prepare the sauce separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter when mixing the sauce ingredients.

What can I use instead of arugula?

Spinach, kale, or watercress are good substitutes for arugula, offering different flavors and textures.

Can I add garlic to the sauce?

Absolutely. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil before adding it to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. Ensure that the Parmesan cheese used is made without animal rennet if strict vegetarian adherence is required.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture.

How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Gradually add reserved pasta water to the sauce until the desired consistency is achieved. Stirring continuously helps maintain a smooth texture.

Conclusion

Ricotta Lemon Pasta with Arugula is a versatile and delightful dish that brings together creamy, zesty, and peppery flavors in a harmonious blend. Its quick preparation and adaptability make it a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the freshness and simplicity of this classic pasta dish.

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