Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas

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Introduction:

Indulge in the flavors of summer with our irresistible Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas recipe. This delightful dish combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the bright zestiness of lemon and the freshness of sweet peas, creating a light and refreshing meal that’s perfect for warm weather. In this article, we’ll share our easy-to-follow recipe along with tips for making the most of this seasonal favorite.

Recipe Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces of pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
  • 1 cup fresh peas, shelled
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the fresh peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the peas and garlic. Toss to combine.
  6. Stir in the lemon ricotta mixture, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips for Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas:

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Immediately: Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas is best served immediately after preparation to enjoy its fresh flavors and creamy texture.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top of the pasta just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
  3. Pair with a Side Salad: Serve the pasta alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a well-balanced meal.
  4. Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the pasta to boost its protein content and make it more filling.
  5. Serve with Crusty Bread: Accompany the pasta with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  2. Reheat Gently: When reheating, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Freshen Up: If the pasta seems dry after refrigeration, add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice to revive the flavors.
  4. Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy ricotta sauce, Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas is not suitable for freezing as the texture may become grainy upon thawing.
  5. Enjoy Cold: Alternatively, you can enjoy the pasta cold as a refreshing pasta salad. Simply toss with a bit of extra olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas remains delicious and enjoyable, whether served fresh or as leftovers.

Variations of Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas:

  1. Lemon Ricotta Spinach Pasta: Add a handful of fresh spinach leaves to the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra dose of greens and nutrients.
  2. Creamy Lemon Ricotta Zucchini Pasta: Replace the peas with thinly sliced zucchini or summer squash for a lighter, vegetable-packed version of the dish.
  3. Lemon Ricotta Chicken Pasta: For added protein, toss in cooked diced chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a more satisfying meal.
  4. Lemon Ricotta Pasta Primavera: Incorporate a variety of seasonal vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and asparagus to create a colorful and vibrant pasta dish.
  5. Lemon Ricotta Shrimp Pasta: Sauté peeled and deveined shrimp in olive oil and garlic until pink and opaque, then toss them with the pasta and ricotta mixture for a seafood twist.
  6. Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Bacon: Crisp up diced bacon in a skillet until golden and crunchy, then sprinkle it over the pasta for a salty and savory addition.
  7. Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Herbs: Stir in chopped fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme to the ricotta mixture for added flavor and freshness.
  8. Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes: Add chopped sundried tomatoes to the pasta for a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy ricotta and bright lemon flavors.
  9. Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in olive oil and garlic until golden brown, then mix them into the pasta for a hearty and earthy variation.
  10. Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Pesto: Swirl in a spoonful of basil pesto into the ricotta mixture for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color.

These variations offer endless possibilities for customizing Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh ones? Yes, frozen peas can be substituted for fresh peas in this recipe. Simply thaw them before adding to the pasta.
  2. Is ricotta cheese necessary, or can I use a different cheese? Ricotta cheese adds creaminess to the pasta dish, but you can substitute it with other creamy cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese if desired.
  3. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, farfalle, or rigatoni. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based ricotta cheese alternative and substituting the milk with a non-dairy option like almond or soy milk.
  5. Can I add protein to this dish? Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added to the pasta for extra protein. Simply cook them separately and toss them with the pasta before serving.
  6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
  7. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming dry? To prevent the pasta from becoming dry, reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. Add a splash of this water to the pasta along with the ricotta mixture to keep it creamy.
  8. Can I add additional vegetables to the pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or baby spinach to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
  9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to save time.
  10. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

With its creamy ricotta cheese, zesty lemon, and sweet peas, our Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas is a delightful summer recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or served at a summer gathering with friends and family, this dish captures the essence of the season with its fresh and vibrant flavors. Try it for yourself and savor the taste of summer in every bite.

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