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 fettuccine; 250g ricotta cheese; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Ideas

When I first made this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta, I knew I was onto something special. The creamy ricotta combined with the bright zest of fresh lemons creates a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for a cozy dinner for two, this recipe elevates simple ingredients into a beautifully vibrant meal that’s bursting with flavor. I love how easy it is to whip up, yet it feels luxurious enough to impress any guest. Trust me, one bite of this creamy goodness, and you'll be hooked!

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:26:37.033Z

My love for this dish started when I was searching for a quick yet elegant meal for a romantic dinner. It was my anniversary, and I wanted something that spoke of warmth and affection through its flavors. Lemon and ricotta were a match made in heaven, and adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs brought everything together beautifully.

Every time I make this pasta, I’m reminded of those sweet moments spent together at the dinner table, savoring every last bite. The secret lies in the quality of the lemon—fresh zest truly makes this dish shine and adds a gorgeous aroma that fills the kitchen with love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, zesty flavor that refreshes your palate
Creamy, luxurious texture that feels indulgent
Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta is undoubtedly the ricotta cheese. Known for its creamy texture, ricotta adds a rich mouthfeel that perfectly complements the acidity of the lemon. When selecting ricotta, aim for fresh, high-quality varieties as they impart a more vibrant flavor and creaminess to your dish. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using part-skim ricotta, but keep in mind it may be slightly less creamy.

Lemons play a crucial role in this dish, providing that bright, zesty flavor. Always opt for fresh lemons over bottled juice; the fresh zest contains oils that enhance the aroma and overall flavor profile. Grate the zest finely to ensure that it incorporates well into the sauce. If you’re looking for a mild flavor, Meyer lemons can be a fantastic substitute as they are sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons.

Technique Tips for Creamy Perfection

Getting the right sauce consistency is key to achieving that luxurious feel. When adding the reserved pasta water, do so gradually, stirring frequently. The heat from the pasta will help melt the ricotta and integrate the ingredients, achieving a smooth, glossy sauce. If your sauce is too thick, add more water until it coats the pasta nicely without becoming soupy.

Another tip is to ensure that the pasta is still hot when combining it with the sauce. The heat will not only help to warm the ricotta but also emulsify the sauce, preventing it from clumping. If you're concerned about overcooking the pasta, err on the side of slightly undercooking it, as it will continue to cook once combined with the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti or fettuccine
250g ricotta cheese
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the hot pasta to the ricotta mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh herbs. Drizzle a bit more olive oil if desired, and enjoy your romantic meal!

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, use whole milk ricotta. Pair with a chilled white wine for the perfect romantic dinner.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta, consider serving it alongside a light arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. The peppery arugula balances the creaminess of the pasta beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal. Adding some crushed red pepper flakes can bring a delightful heat that enhances the dish's flavors.

For a heartier take, incorporate grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. These proteins not only add flavor but also make the dish more filling, making it suitable for a special occasion or celebratory dinner.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance. Store the ricotta mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply cook the pasta, combine, and adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water. Be cautious not to overheat the sauce when mixing as ricotta can become grainy if cooked at too high a temperature.

If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra olive oil or pasta water to restore the creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the ricotta with a plant-based alternative like tofu blended with nutritional yeast and lemon juice.

→ What other herbs can I add?

Fresh thyme or dill would also complement the lemon perfectly.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and toss it with the pasta just before serving.