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Homemade Quick Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti (Pantry Meal) photo
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Quick Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti (Pantry Meal)

This Quick Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti is SO EASY! A bright, creamy pantry meal ready in about 20 minutes with simple ingredients and zesty lemon flavor.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Easy, Pantry Meal, Quick, Vegetarian
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese fresh, creamy
  • 1 lemon zest and juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated if possible
  • 1/4 cup olive oil extra-virgin
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper freshly cracked, to taste
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  • Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add 8 ounces of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining to help loosen the sauce later.
  • While the spaghetti cooks, zest and juice 1 lemon. Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely so they release their full aroma during cooking.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, pour 1/4 cup of olive oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden but not burnt.
  • Lower the heat and add 1 cup of ricotta cheese, the lemon zest, juice, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir together gently until creamy and well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your preferred consistency.
  • Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet. Toss well to coat every strand with the creamy lemon-ricotta sauce. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  • Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Zester or microplane
  • Citrus juicer (optional)
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Reserve some pasta water to help the sauce cling beautifully to the spaghetti.
  • Do not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness; sauté until just fragrant and lightly golden.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor and aroma.