Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti or fettuccine; Salt, for pasta water; 250g ricotta cheese; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish; Chili flakes, optional

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love cooking this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta for special occasions. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon creates a dish that is both comforting and refreshing. As I prepare this meal, I find that tossing in bright herbs like basil and a sprinkle of chili flakes elevates the flavors even further. It’s easy to prepare yet feels sophisticated, making it perfect for intimate dinners or romantic evenings. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create something truly special!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:58:09.043Z

This pasta dish came to life on a whim when I wanted something quick yet delicious. I experimented with enhancing the ricotta using just the right amount of lemon zest and juice, which brought the whole dish together. I remember the first time I served it; it felt like a warm hug on a plate, and my partner couldn't stop raving about it!

What truly makes this dish shine is the balance of creamy and zesty notes. I recommend using fresh herbs not just for a pop of color, but they also bring freshness to every bite. Trust me, it’s this little detail that transforms this simple pasta into a showstopper!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta blended with bright lemon flavors
Simple to whip up, yet impressive enough for a date night
Perfectly pairs with a glass of white wine

      

Key Techniques for Success

For this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta, cooking the pasta perfectly is crucial. Always aim for al dente, as it provides a nice bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Start heating your salted water once you have your ingredients ready, so it boils while you prepare the other components. This not only saves time but also ensures your pasta remains fresh and hot until you’re ready to serve.

When combining the pasta with the ricotta sauce, remember to add the reserved pasta water gradually. This starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a smooth and luxurious texture. I usually start with a quarter cup and add more if necessary; the sauce should coat the pasta without being overly runny. Keep an eye on the mixture as it simmers, adjusting the heat to maintain a gentle warmth.

Ingredient Importance

Ricotta cheese is the star of this recipe, providing creaminess and a slightly sweet flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ricotta; it makes a noticeable difference in the taste. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part of the ricotta with low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind this may alter the texture slightly. To enhance the flavor profile, try using a ricotta that is labeled as 'whole milk' for a richer taste.

Lemon zest and juice not only brighten up the dish but also balance the creaminess of the ricotta. Be sure to use fresh lemons, as bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor and essential oils found in the zest. When zesting, aim for the yellow part only; the white pith underneath can add bitterness. For those who prefer a milder citrus note, using half the lemon’s juice and zest is a perfect alternative.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti or fettuccine
Salt, for pasta water

For the Sauce

250g ricotta cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Chili flakes, optional

Mix and match herbs and spices to suit your taste!

Preparing the Dish

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In the pot, combine the drained pasta with the ricotta sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help bind the sauce, and mix until evenly coated. Adjust consistency as needed.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired. Enjoy your romantic dinner!

Enjoy your delicious meal paired with a light salad or bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. You can also experiment with different herbs like parsley or thyme for varied flavor profiles.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers of this pasta, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might notice the sauce thickens; simply add a tablespoon or two of water or more reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Heat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the ricotta to separate and become grainy.

For meal prep, you can make the ricotta sauce ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to two days. Cook the pasta fresh to ensure the best texture, as reheated pasta can become mushy. If you choose to freeze the sauce, it can last for up to a month. Simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat as noted above.

Serving Suggestions

For a romantic meal, pair this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc. This not only complements the zesty flavors but also enhances the overall dining experience. Set the table with candles and soft music to create a cozy atmosphere that elevates your dinner.

To add variety, consider topping your pasta with sautéed vegetables. Asparagus, zucchini, or fresh peas can be lightly cooked in olive oil and tossed with the pasta just before serving. This not only adds color but also a range of textures and flavors, making your dish even more appealing to the senses.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone or even a vegan alternative if needed.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta instead, and follow the same cooking instructions.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the ricotta sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for 2-3 days.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Sautéed zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make excellent additions.