If you’re craving a pasta dish that feels like a fresh, bright hug on a plate, look no further than this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that effortlessly balances creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and vibrant spinach, creating a luscious sauce that coats every tender strand of pasta. What I love most is how fast and simple it is—perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for sharing with friends. This dish manages to be comforting, refreshing, and delightfully satisfying all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven food ingredients placed neatly on a white marbled surface. On the top left, there is a bowl filled with fresh, bright green spinach leaves with a slightly shiny texture. Next to it, a small bowl holds finely shredded white cheese with a soft, fluffy look. On the far right, a bundle of long, straight, uncooked yellow spaghetti pasta rests parallel to the edge of the surface. Below the spinach, a bowl contains smooth, white ricotta cheese with a creamy, slightly chunky texture. In the middle, a glass container holds light golden olive oil that shines under the light. Toward the bottom left, two halves of a bright yellow lemon show juicy interiors with a fresh feel. Finally, at the bottom right, a small white plate holds a peeled garlic clove, a small pile of black pepper, and a small pile of salt arranged side by side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own magic. The ricotta adds creamy richness, fresh spinach contributes a pop of green and earthiness, and the lemon zest and juice brighten everything up with a sunny zing. Together, they create a harmonious blend that’s as colorful as it is tasty.

Pasta (1/2 lb): Choose spaghetti, linguine, penne, or fusilli—whatever you love—as the perfect base for holding the creamy sauce.
Whole-milk ricotta (1 cup): This creamy cheese creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes every bite dreamy.
Fresh baby spinach (8 oz): Adds vibrant color and mild earthiness while wilting gently into the pasta.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup, plus extra to serve): A savory punch that deepens the flavor and adds a lovely nutty finish.
Unwaxed lemon (zest and juice): The star ingredient that gives the dish its distinct bright, citrusy flavor.
Extra virgin olive oil (1 tbsp, plus extra for drizzling): Introduces a fruity richness that ties all the flavors together perfectly.
Garlic clove (1, grated or pressed): Infuses a subtle warmth and depth while staying balanced.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other ingredients beautifully.
Lemon wedges (optional): For an extra fresh squeeze of juice at the table, adding a zesty finishing touch.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your choice of pasta until it’s perfectly al dente according to the package directions. This is key because the pasta’s firm bite will balance the creamy sauce later on. As it cooks, we’ll start on that heavenly ricotta sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole-milk ricotta, extra virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan, grated or pressed garlic, and the all-important lemon zest and juice from that unwaxed lemon. Season lightly with salt and a generous pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Stir until everything is beautifully combined and give it a quick taste to make sure the lemon hits just right. This sauce is the star of the show, delivering creaminess with an invigorating citrus burst.

Step 3: Add Spinach to the Pasta

In the last minute of your pasta’s cooking time, reserve about half a cup of the starchy cooking water—this will be your secret weapon for smoothing out the sauce. Then, toss in the fresh baby spinach right into the pot with the pasta. Give it a gentle stir and push the leaves under the water; they’ll soften in just about a minute, adding wonderful color and nutrition.

Step 4: Combine and Coat

Drain the pasta and spinach together, then return them to the same pot. Immediately add the luscious ricotta sauce and a splash of the reserved cooking water. Stir vigorously to create a silky, creamy coating on every piece of pasta. If it feels too thick, add a little more cooking water until you achieve that smooth velvet texture you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Serve Promptly and Garnish

Serve your Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe right away for the best flavor and texture. Sprinkle with extra grated or shaved Parmesan cheese, drizzle some more olive oil on top, and add lemon wedges on the side for anyone wanting a zesty finishing boost. For those who love a hint of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes is a fabulous addition. Now dive in and enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe

A glass bowl is filled with soft, white ricotta cheese, drizzled with yellow olive oil, and sprinkled with black pepper on a white marbled surface. Next to it, a small white bowl holds finely grated white cheese. A bright yellow lemon and a metal grater lie nearby, along with a clear glass bottle filled with golden olive oil. A green cloth is placed behind the small bowl, adding a soft touch to the bright, fresh setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish with a sharp, nutty taste and a touch of saltiness. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil adds sheen and richness, while lemon wedges offer an extra citrus punch that brightens every bite. If you want to spice things up, red pepper flakes deliver a lovely warm kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with light sides that won’t overpower its delicate flavors. Think crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad tossed with a lemony vinaigrette. Roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled asparagus can also add a smoky, savory note that complements the dish’s freshness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a feast-worthy presentation, try plating the pasta in shallow bowls, then finishing with a few fresh spinach leaves on top for color and texture contrast. Adding edible flowers or a scatter of toasted pine nuts provides a fun visual and crunch element. Alternatively, serve it family-style in a large serving dish with all the garnishes on the side for a relaxed, interactive meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Because this dish is so fresh and creamy, it’s best enjoyed soon after making, but proper refrigeration ensures it stays luscious without any sogginess.

Freezing

This pasta doesn’t freeze particularly well due to the ricotta and spinach, which can separate or become watery when thawed. If you want to make the sauce ahead, you can freeze just the ricotta mixture separately and toss it with freshly cooked pasta and spinach when ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to bring back its creamy texture without drying out. Avoid microwaving as much as possible to preserve the sauce’s silky consistency. Stir gently until warmed through and freshened up.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Absolutely! Baby kale, Swiss chard, or arugula can be great substitutes. Just keep in mind that each green has its own texture and flavor profile, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to keep them tender but vibrant.

Is there a dairy-free version of this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe?

Yes! You can swap the ricotta for a plant-based version like almond or cashew ricotta, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will be slightly different, but just as delightful and creamy.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Sure thing! The ricotta sauce can be mixed a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature and stir well before tossing with the hot pasta. Just add the lemon juice fresh if you want the brightest citrus notes.

What type of pasta works best?

Since the sauce is creamy and smooth, pasta with grooves or tubes like fusilli or penne hold the sauce beautifully. But long strands like linguine or spaghetti are also fantastic choices to showcase the simplicity of this dish.

How can I make this recipe more filling?

Adding cooked chicken breast, shrimp, or even crispy toasted pine nuts can boost the protein and texture without overpowering the fresh lemony flavor. A handful of toasted breadcrumbs on top also brings wonderful crunch and substance.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both luxurious and effortless, perfect for brightening your dinner table on any given night. Its creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors come together in such a harmonious way that you’ll want to make it again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and share with your favorite people—because good food brings everyone closer, especially when it tastes this good!

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need