Description
This Creamy Ricotta Pea Pasta is a comforting and rich dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese with the sweetness of peas, creating a velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. It’s a light yet indulgent meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special treat!
Ingredients
- Pasta: 8 oz (about 225g) of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or any type you prefer)
- Ricotta cheese: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Frozen peas: 1 cup (or about 150g; you can use fresh peas as well if preferred)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh basil: A handful of fresh leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Salt & pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Salt the water generously, then reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Garlic and Peas: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender and heated through.
- Make the Ricotta Sauce: Add ricotta cheese to the pan with peas and garlic. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water to create a smooth sauce. Add lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Toss the Pasta with the Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss gently to coat in the ricotta sauce. Adjust sauce consistency with more pasta water if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta with fresh basil or Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- Pasta water magic: Don’t skip reserving pasta water—it helps thicken the sauce and makes it stick to the pasta.
- Customize your peas: Swap peas for other veggies like spinach, asparagus, or roasted mushrooms if desired.
- Lemon zest: Adds a refreshing layer of flavor and balances the creaminess of the ricotta.
- Creamier sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg