Unbelievably Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta: Your New Favorite Dish!

Are you ready to elevate your pasta game to a whole new level? This creamy lemon ricotta pasta recipe is a game-changer that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Combining the zesty brightness of lemon with the creamy goodness of ricotta, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

#### Ingredients:
- 12 oz. pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

#### Instructions:
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.

2. **Prepare the Sauce**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix well until smooth.

3. **Combine and Cook**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine. Add the ricotta mixture and continue to stir until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. **Serve**: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top.

5. **Enjoy**: Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, zesty goodness of this delightful pasta dish!

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- **Quick and Easy**: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
- **Deliciously Creamy**: The ricotta cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s incredibly satisfying.
- **Zesty Flavor**: The fresh lemon zest and juice add a bright, tangy twist that complements the creamy ricotta perfectly.
- **Versatile**: This dish can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

### Tips for the Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta
- **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a huge difference in flavor.
- **Don’t Skip the Pasta Water**: The reserved pasta water helps to create a silky, smooth sauce.
- **Adjust to Taste**: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon and cheese to suit your personal preference.

### Make It Your Own
- **Add Vegetables**: Incorporate sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
- **Include Protein**: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon can make this dish even more satisfying.
- **Try Different Herbs**: Fresh thyme, oregano, or dill can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

This creamy lemon ricotta pasta is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress. So why wait? Get cooking and discover the deliciousness of this creamy, dreamy pasta today!

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