Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Name: Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or linguine); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 lemon (juiced and zested); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh Food

I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to this Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta. The creamy texture of the ricotta combined with the bright notes of lemon makes for a truly enchanting dish. Whether it's a cozy date night or a gathering with friends, I always find that this recipe elevates the occasion. The simplicity of the ingredients, yet the depth of flavor that comes through, is what makes this pasta a favorite in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again.

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:08:40.386Z

When I first created this dish, I was experimenting with flavors that would evoke the feeling of a romantic evening. I knew I wanted something light yet rich, and the marriage of lemon and ricotta was an absolute win. The creaminess from the ricotta balanced perfectly with the acidity of the lemon, creating a delightful harmony.

What I found most impressive was how quickly it comes together without compromising on taste. The key is to use fresh ingredients—fresh lemon juice and high-quality ricotta. This little detail really makes a difference in the overall experience of this dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A tangy lemon flavor that brightens your palate
Creamy ricotta that brings a luxurious texture
Quick to prepare, perfect for a romantic dinner

The Creaminess of Ricotta

Ricotta cheese is the star of this dish, bringing a creamy richness that balances beautifully with the zesty lemon. When mixing the ricotta with the lemon juice and zest, ensure the mixture is smooth before adding it to the pasta. This not only helps in achieving that luxurious texture but also ensures that the lemon flavor is evenly distributed. If your ricotta is too thick, you can whisk in a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it up before combining.

Choosing high-quality ricotta is key to elevating this dish. Look for fresh ricotta from the deli counter rather than the grocery store shelf for better flavor and texture. When you take the time to select the best ingredients, such as a creamy, rich ricotta, the final dish will taste all the more delightful and truly romantic.

Balancing Flavors

Achieving the right balance of flavors is essential in this lemon ricotta pasta. The tanginess of the lemon should complement the creamy ricotta without overwhelming it. When you initially add the lemon juice, start with half of what you think you'll need, taste, and adjust from there. This approach allows you to customize the dish according to your preference. Remember that the brightness of the lemon can vary, so taste as you go and adjust accordingly.

Fresh basil adds a lovely herbaceous note that rounds out the dish. Chop it roughly and sprinkle it over your plated pasta just before serving; the heat from the pasta will gently release its oils. If you do not have fresh basil, consider using arugula or spinach for a similar fresh taste. However, these leafy greens will blend less seamlessly into the overall aesthetics of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 lemon (juiced and zested)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Make sure everything is ready before moving on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Romantic Lemon Ricotta Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

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

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and mix, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired creaminess.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh basil leaves and Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your romantic meal!

Now, sit back and savor your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is excellent for make-ahead meals, especially for busy nights or when planning a romantic evening. You can prepare the lemon ricotta sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you are ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, mix in the chilled sauce, and add a splash of reserved pasta water to bring it all together.

For meal prep or batch cooking, consider doubling the recipe. The pasta can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days, but keep in mind that the ricotta sauce will thicken as it sits. To reheat, add a small amount of water to the mixture in a skillet over low heat. Stir continuously until it reaches your desired creaminess.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your lemon ricotta pasta by experimenting with additional ingredients. For protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp complements the creamy texture while adding heartiness. Simply toss them in just before serving to warm them through. Additionally, you can introduce seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or peas. Lightly blanch or sauté them before mixing with the pasta for added color and nutrition.

If you want to incorporate a different cheese for complexity, try mixing in some feta for a slight tang, or a touch of goat cheese for an earthy flavor. Just remember to adjust the salt levels accordingly, as both feta and goat cheese can be saltier than ricotta. These variations allow you to personalize the dish while still enjoying the original flavors that make it so special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with mascarpone or cottage cheese for a different texture.

→ What if I don't have fresh basil?

Dried basil can be used as a substitute, though fresh herbs will enhance the flavor significantly.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

While it can be made ahead, the pasta can get gummy upon reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp work wonderfully with the lemon ricotta flavor.