Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula • Olive & Mango is like a sun-kissed Italian getaway right on your dinner plate. Picture this: creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and peppery arugula twirling together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that sings with flavor and vibrancy. creamy zucchini sauce pairing.
This recipe isn’t just about feeding your stomach; it’s about feeding your soul. I fondly remember the first time I whipped up this pasta for my friends during a casual dinner party. As we laughed and shared stories, the aroma of lemon and fresh herbs filled the air, making it impossible not to smile with every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula is quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.
- The bright flavors make it a delightful dish for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to impressive gatherings.
- Its vibrant colors will dazzle your guests and elevate your dining experience.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to switch up ingredients based on what’s available in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula • Olive & Mango
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Choose your favorite type; spaghetti or fettuccine works beautifully for this recipe.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; opt for fresh if possible for the best flavor.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Freshly grated lemon zest and juice provide the zing that ties everything together.
- Fresh Arugula: Peppery arugula gives a lovely bite; use baby arugula if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of umami goodness; don’t skip this!
- Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor profile.
For seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors in the pasta.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula • Olive & Mango
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the drained pasta to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss gently to coat every strand of pasta with that luscious sauce.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
If the sauce seems too thick or dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add Arugula
Fold in fresh arugula gently into the pasta mixture until just wilted—about one minute should do!
Step 6: Serve
Plate your Lemon Ricotta Pasta generously and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch.
This delightful dish is sure to impress anyone at your table. So gather your loved ones around, serve up generous portions of this Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula • Olive & Mango, and enjoy! crispy chicken to serve alongside.
You Must Know
- This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula is a delightful dish that turns any meal into a celebration.
- It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing unexpected guests.
- The combination of creamy ricotta and peppery arugula creates a vibrant flavor explosion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta until al dente. While it’s cooking, mix together the lemon zest, ricotta, and olive oil in a bowl. Once the pasta is ready, combine it with the sauce and arugula for a perfectly balanced dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out arugula for spinach if you’re feeling adventurous. Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that says, “I’m here for a good time!” cilantro lime chicken option.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of olive oil and warm gently on the stove, stirring to maintain that creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, always taste your pasta water; it should be as salty as the sea!
- Don’t skip the lemon zest; it brightens up the dish beautifully.
- When combining ingredients, be gentle with the arugula to keep that fresh crunch intact.
Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about that one dinner party where my friends devoured this dish in seconds. The laughter and compliments made me feel like a culinary rockstar—who knew pasta could create such joy?
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula?
To make Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula, you will need fresh pasta, ricotta cheese, arugula, lemon juice and zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include grated Parmesan cheese and pine nuts for added flavor and crunch. Using fresh ingredients enhances the dish’s taste. This pasta dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
How long does it take to prepare Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula?
Preparing Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula takes about 20 to 30 minutes in total. Cooking the pasta typically takes around 8 to 10 minutes, while making the sauce and combining the ingredients takes an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This quick preparation time makes it an ideal option for busy evenings when you still want a delicious and satisfying meal.
Can I customize Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula?
Absolutely! You can customize Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula by adding your favorite vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or spinach. If you prefer a protein boost, grilled chicken or shrimp works well. You can also experiment with different herbs or add some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. The flexibility of this dish allows you to tailor it to your tastes while keeping the core flavors intact.
Is Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula healthy?
Yes, Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula is a healthy dish when prepared mindfully. The use of fresh ingredients like arugula adds vitamins and minerals while ricotta offers protein. Opting for whole wheat pasta can increase fiber content. As long as you manage portion sizes and use quality olive oil, this recipe can be part of a balanced diet that supports overall health.
Conclusion for Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula • Olive & Mango
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines creamy ricotta with zesty lemon and peppery arugula. It’s quick to prepare, making it suitable for any occasion. By choosing fresh ingredients, you create a flavorful meal that’s not only satisfying but also healthy. stuffed salmon for a complete meal Customize this recipe easily according to your preferences. Enjoy this delightful pasta that brings together simplicity and taste in every bite.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula is a bright and refreshing dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese, zesty lemon, and peppery arugula for a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for any occasion, this quick recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings. With its vibrant flavors and compelling aroma, this pasta dish will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- 3. Add drained pasta to the ricotta mixture; toss gently to coat evenly.
- 4. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- 5. Fold in arugula until just wilted (about one minute).
- 6. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
