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: 200g spaghetti or tagliatelle; 150g fresh ricotta cheese; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

When I first made this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta, I was blown away by how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The creamy ricotta blends perfectly with a refreshing zest of lemon, making it a delightful dish for a special dinner. With the right pasta and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a romantic atmosphere in your kitchen. I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a dash of olive oil, ensuring every bite is filled with vibrant flavors and a touch of elegance.

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:33:35.290Z

When I first discovered the combination of lemon and ricotta, I knew I was onto something magical. The creaminess of the ricotta is balanced beautifully by the bright citrus notes of lemon, creating a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. I've made this pasta for many special occasions, and every time, it impresses.

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients; fresh pasta cooks faster and holds the sauce better. I also recommend saving a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency, ensuring the perfect creamy finish. It's a simple but impactful tip that takes this dish to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy ricotta with a hint of zesty lemon makes every bite delicious.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special date night.
An impressive dish that looks as beautiful as it tastes, appealing to both your eyes and palate.

Perfecting Your Pasta Cooking Technique

Cooking pasta properly is essential for this dish, as it creates the perfect base for coating with the creamy ricotta sauce. Always use a large pot with plenty of salted water to allow the spaghetti or tagliatelle to move freely while cooking. Aim for al dente, which typically means cooking for 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand and thickness of the pasta. You want it to retain a slight bite, so taste a strand a minute or two before the recommended time.

Don't forget to reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water acts as a natural thickener and helps bind the sauce to the pasta. If you find the sauce is too thick after combining, gradually adding this water will create a silky consistency. Keep in mind that every pasta type absorbs liquid differently, so the amount needed may vary.

The Role of Ricotta and Lemon

Ricotta cheese serves as the star of this dish, providing a creamy, rich texture without being overly heavy. When mixing it with the lemon juice and zest, you're creating a delightful balance of creaminess and acidity. Make sure to choose high-quality fresh ricotta for the best flavor; a low-fat option can lead to a bland result. If you're in a pinch, you could substitute mascarpone for a richer flavor, but it might change the dish's character slightly.

Lemon is key to enhancing the dish’s brightness. The zest carries essential oils that release an aromatic punch, while the juice contributes a refreshing tang. If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, use the juice of just half the lemon and adjust to your taste. Remember, fresh lemons yield the best results; bottled lemon juice doesn’t provide the same vibrant taste.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti or tagliatelle
150g fresh ricotta cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured before starting for a smooth cooking experience!

Steps to Make Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well until creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss gently to coat the pasta. Gradually add reserved pasta water to reach the desired sauce consistency.

Serve

Divide the pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with additional olive oil and season with extra salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy immediately!

For best results, serve your pasta fresh and warm, as the sauce will thicken upon cooling.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or top with toasted pine nuts for added crunch.

Variations and Add-Ins

For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or asparagus. These can be cooked in the same pot as the pasta for convenience—adding them to the boiling water a minute or two before draining. You can also incorporate protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp to elevate the dish further.

If you're looking for an extra layer of flavor, try adding crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or toasted pine nuts for crunch. Each of these variations can add a new dimension while keeping the integrity of the romantic lemon ricotta pasta intact.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce over time, making it thicker. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce back to its desired consistency.

If you're considering making this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately. Cook the pasta al dente, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil, and store it. Combine it with the sauce just before serving to maintain the fresh flavors and textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work, but I recommend a long noodle like spaghetti or fettuccine for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can try mascarpone or cottage cheese if needed, but the flavor may be slightly different.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but if you must, you can freeze it. Just note that the texture may change upon reheating.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure your pasta is made without eggs if you want it to be fully plant-based.