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Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach and Toasted Pine Nuts

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach and Toasted Pine Nuts

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Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach and Toasted Pine Nuts is a delightful dish that perfectly balances comfort and elegance. Ready in just 25 minutes, this pasta recipe features a luscious ricotta sauce infused with zesty lemon, complemented by the vibrant color of wilted spinach and the satisfying crunch of toasted pine nuts. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Plus, it’s easily adaptable—add grilled chicken or your favorite veggies to customize it to your taste. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this pasta will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz dried pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
  • 1½ cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil water in a large pot; add 1 tsp kosher salt.
  2. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve 1 cup of cooking water before draining.
  4. In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté garlic until fragrant (20–30 seconds). Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  5. In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; add reserved pasta water to achieve a smooth consistency.
  6. Combine drained pasta with spinach mixture; pour over the ricotta sauce, tossing gently until well combined.
  7. Serve immediately topped with toasted pine nuts.

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