Description
Lemon ricotta zucchini pasta brings Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner plate. Fresh zucchini ribbons dance with creamy ricotta and tangy lemon, creating a light yet satisfying Italian-inspired meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (gluten-free if you want)
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup (227 grams) ricotta cheese
Cheese and Seasoning:
- ¼ cup (25 grams) grated Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan cheese)
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons torn fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions, ensuring an al dente texture. Carefully reserve of the starchy cooking water before draining.
- Heat of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice zucchini into thin half-moons and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly golden and tender.
- Mince fresh garlic cloves and sprinkle red pepper flakes into the skillet with zucchini. Sauté for an additional 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine smooth ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, freshly grated lemon zest, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the ingredients until well incorporated.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the zucchini skillet, then gently fold in the ricotta mixture. Gradually introduce the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously to create a silky, creamy sauce that evenly coats the pasta.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the pasta. Serve the dish immediately while warm, with an optional extra dusting of Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- Zucchini transforms this simple pasta into a vibrant summer dish bursting with fresh flavors.
- Ricotta creates a luxurious, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to each pasta strand.
- Lemon zest adds bright, citrusy notes that elevate the entire meal’s taste profile.
- Reserved pasta water is the secret weapon for achieving silky, perfectly coated noodles.
- Fresh basil provides a final aromatic touch that makes this recipe feel restaurant-worthy.
- Quick and effortless preparation means you can enjoy a gourmet meal in under 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg