Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz. spaghetti; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Dessert Magic

I absolutely love making Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon creates a delightful balance that feels both comforting and refreshing. I find that the bright flavor of the lemon elevates the dish, making it perfect for special occasions or just a romantic night in. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, this pasta is one my partner and I never get tired of enjoying together. Let's dive into this perfect recipe that brightens our dinner table!

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:43:13.423Z

Creating the perfect Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta was a delightful experience. I experimented with different cheeses, but the creaminess of ricotta paired with the sharpness of lemon zest proves to be a match made in heaven. I also added a touch of garlic to amplify the flavor, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it complemented the rest of the ingredients!

I always make sure to use fresh lemons for the zest. It not only adds brightness but enhances the aroma of the dish as well. It’s a simple tip, yet it takes this recipe to new heights and makes it a go-to for date nights.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The creamy ricotta blends perfectly with the zesty lemon.
Quick and easy to prepare for a busy weeknight.
Perfect balance of flavors that impresses without fuss.

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy texture of ricotta cheese defines this dish, and using high-quality ricotta will significantly enhance the overall flavor. Look for whole milk ricotta, as it offers a richer taste compared to low-fat varieties. If you’re feeling adventurous, try blending the ricotta with a splash of heavy cream to increase creaminess and introduce a silky finish to the sauce. This extra step can take your Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta to a whole new level.

Incorporating the lemon zest and juice is critical not just for flavor but for balancing the richness of the ricotta. Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing it to maximize the essential oils released from the skin. These oils impart a fragrant aroma that elevates the entire dish. When stirring in the lemon juice, add it gradually, tasting as you go until you achieve the right level of brightness without overwhelming the delicate ricotta.

Cooking and Combining Techniques

Cooking the spaghetti al dente is essential; overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy texture that clashes with the creamy sauce. Aim for a tender bite, as the pasta will continue to cook when mixed with the hot sauce. To help with this, set a timer for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions, and taste the pasta as it cooks. Once done, don't forget to reserve some of the pasta water to help adjust the sauce's consistency later.

When combining the pasta with the sauce, a good technique is to add the pasta to the skillet rather than the other way around. This ensures that the spaghetti is evenly coated and allows the ricotta sauce to cling better to the noodles. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up; just add it gradually until you reach your desired texture—aim for a glossy finish that clings nicely to the pasta.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious pasta dish:

Ingredients

8 oz. spaghetti
1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure to measure your ingredients for better precision in flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss well until the pasta is fully coated with the ricotta-l lemon sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Plate the pasta, and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your romantic meal!

Tip: You can adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference for acidity.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider swapping out half of the ricotta cheese for low-fat Greek yogurt. This substitution will maintain the creamy texture while reducing calories and adding a slight tang. Additionally, if lemon isn’t your preferred flavor, you can experiment with other citrus fruits, such as lime or orange, to create a unique twist on this classic dish.

For a vegetarian protein boost, feel free to add sautéed spinach or another leafy green to the pasta. The greens will not only enrich the dish's nutritional profile but also infuse it with color and flavor. Simply sauté the greens in the olive oil alongside the garlic before mixing in the ricotta to ensure everything blends seamlessly.

Serving Suggestions

To make this romantic meal feel even more special, consider plating the pasta in a large shallow bowl and using fresh herbs as a garnish. A sprinkle of finely chopped chives or parsley can add a pop of color, while lemon slices make a beautiful decorative element. Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the citrus notes of the pasta.

If you’re preparing this dish for a special occasion, serve it alongside a light salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can complement the pasta beautifully, balancing the meal without overwhelming it. This combination not only looks stunning on the table but also provides a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the ricotta pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne!

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure your cheese is suitable for your diet.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and just cook the pasta when ready.

→ What can I do with leftover ricotta?

Leftover ricotta can be used in pancakes, spreads, or desserts like cheesecake!