Description
This creamy, citrus-infused pasta dish is delicious and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or your pasta of choice and cook until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes depending on the type of pasta you’ve chosen. Remember to reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta; this starchy water is crucial for helping to bind the sauce to the noodles.
- While your pasta is cooking, prepare the toasted pine nuts. Place a dry skillet over medium heat, and add the pine nuts. Stir them frequently, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. Toast for about 3 to 5 minutes or until they are golden brown and aromatic. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
- In the same skillet used for pine nuts, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the fresh spinach and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Use a fork or whisk to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the mixture feels a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- With your pasta cooked and drained, it’s time to bring everything together. Toss the hot pasta with the sautéed spinach and garlic mixture directly in the skillet. Then, pour over the ricotta sauce, tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated. Gradually add the reserved pasta water in small amounts until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- To finish, serve the pasta warm, and don’t forget to sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top for that delicious crunch.
Notes
The dish is best enjoyed soon after preparation, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Protein: 15 g