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+ servings
Lemon Ricotta Bucatini, topped with black pepper and basil, on a dark plate.
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5 from 1 vote

Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Bright, creamy, and so easy to make. This lemon ricotta pasta is a fast weeknight pasta that tastes like a restaurant dish.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Course: Main Course, Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 4
Calories: 754kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Pasta
  • 1 cup Whole milk ricotta
  • 1 Fresh lemon zest and juice (1 tsp zest, 1/4 cup juice)
  • 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1/2 cup Grated Romano or Parmesan cheese plus extra for garnish
  • 1/4 cup Reserved pasta water
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh basil
  • Red pepper flakes optional

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
    1 lb Pasta
  • While the pasta cooks, whisk together the ricotta, Romano or Parmesan, olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl until smooth. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
    1 cup Whole milk ricotta, 1 Fresh lemon, 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 cup Grated Romano or Parmesan cheese, Kosher salt, Freshly ground black pepper, Red pepper flakes
  • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
  • Add the ricotta mixture, butter, and about 1/4 cup of pasta water to the pasta. Toss over low heat until the sauce is creamy and coats the noodles.
    2 tbsp Butter, 1/4 cup Reserved pasta water
  • Add more pasta water as needed until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve topped with extra cheese, black pepper, and fresh basil.

Nutrition

Calories: 754kcal | Carbohydrates: 90g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 255mg | Potassium: 368mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 509IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 294mg | Iron: 2mg