Go Back Email Link

Lemon Spinach Pasta

A light and refreshing pasta dish combining vibrant flavors of lemon and spinach with creamy ricotta cheese, perfect for a quick meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 ounces rigatoni (or other pasta) You can substitute with any pasta shape.
  • 10 ounces spinach Fresh or thawed frozen spinach can be used.
  • 1.5 cups ricotta (or dairy-free ricotta) For a dairy-free option, use appropriate substitutes.
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated, or dairy-free cheese) Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Start with a teaspoon and add more to taste.
  • teaspoon nutmeg (grated)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • In the last two minutes of cooking, toss in the spinach to wilt it.
  • Once cooked, drain the pasta and spinach, and set aside.

Make the Lemon Ricotta Sauce

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, olive oil, lemon zest, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until it forms a smooth mixture.

Toss the Pasta

  • Add the drained pasta and spinach to the ricotta mixture.
  • Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
  • Finally, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating.
Keyword comfort food, Healthy Pasta, Lemon Pasta, Quick Pasta Recipe, Spinach Pasta
QR Code linking back to recipe