Why You’ll Love 10‑Minute Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe

It’s ready in about 15 minutes — from pot to plate fast.
The creamy ricotta sauce, fresh lemon zest and juice, and nutty Parmesan create a light but indulgent flavor.
Adding spinach gives it freshness and a good dose of greens, making the meal feel balanced rather than heavy.
It’s versatile: you can swap or add vegetables or protein (like chicken or salmon) depending on what you have.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, fusilli, or similar)
Whole‑milk ricotta cheese
Fresh baby spinach
Grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra to serve)
Lemon (zest and juice)
Extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
Garlic (clove, grated or pressed)
Salt and black pepper

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Meanwhile, prepare the ricotta sauce.
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon zest and juice. Season with salt (about ¼ tsp) and a generous pinch of pepper. Stir until smooth and taste — adjust seasoning as needed.
In the last minute of the pasta cooking time, reserve about ½ cup of pasta cooking water. Then add the spinach directly to the pot of boiling pasta and stir for one minute so it wilts.
Drain the pasta and spinach, then return them to the pot. Pour over the ricotta sauce and some of the reserved pasta water. Stir well, adding more pasta water if needed, until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Serve immediately. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, top with extra grated Parmesan, and optionally offer lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

Servings: 3
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Substitute or add other vegetables: asparagus, peas, zucchini, or artichokes work well.
Swap spinach for other greens such as arugula, basil, or chives for different flavor profiles.
Add protein — grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or other cooked meats — to make it more substantial.
Use whole‑grain pasta for extra fiber and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat: warm gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or milk to re-loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

FAQs

How can I make the sauce extra creamy and smooth?

Mix the ricotta, olive oil, Parmesan, lemon, garlic, and seasoning thoroughly until smooth before combining with the pasta. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency to your liking.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the dish to prevent watering down the sauce.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti, linguine, penne, or fusilli work well. Avoid very small shapes like orzo as they may not hold the sauce as effectively.

Can I skip the garlic if I don’t like it?

Yes, the recipe still tastes great without garlic. The lemon and ricotta carry the flavor beautifully on their own.

Is it okay to use part‑skim ricotta instead of whole‑milk ricotta?

Yes, but whole‑milk ricotta provides a richer and creamier texture. Part‑skim will work if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Can I add other ingredients like herbs or spices?

Absolutely. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives enhance flavor. Red pepper flakes add a bit of heat if desired.

How soon should I serve the pasta after mixing?

Serve immediately. The sauce is best when freshly mixed and warm, as it can thicken or dry out if left to sit.

Is this pasta dish suitable for meal prep and leftovers?

Yes, though the texture is best fresh. Store in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of water or milk.

Can I double the recipe to serve more people?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients. Make sure your pot is large enough to handle the increased volume.

What can I serve alongside this pasta for a complete meal?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken or fish make great additions for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

This 10-minute lemon ricotta pasta with spinach is everything you want in a quick meal — easy, flavorful, creamy, and satisfying. It brings together the freshness of lemon, the richness of ricotta, and the wholesomeness of spinach in one simple dish that feels both light and comforting. Perfect for busy nights or when you need a delicious dish in a hurry.

10‑Minute Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach