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Fresh One-Pan Spring Pea and Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Zest

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A quick and easy one-pan pasta dish featuring fresh or frozen peas, creamy ricotta, and bright lemon zest for a fresh spring-inspired meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 cup (150 grams) fresh or frozen peas, shelled if fresh
  • 1 cup (250 grams) whole milk ricotta cheese
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • About 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth or water
  • ¼ cup (25 grams) finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A handful of fresh mint or basil, roughly chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: zest and juice the lemon, thinly slice or mince the garlic cloves. Shell fresh peas if using; no need to thaw frozen peas.
  2. Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the peas and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
  4. Break the spaghetti in half if needed to fit the pan, then add it to the boiling broth. Submerge all the pasta, pressing down gently if it sticks out. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 9-11 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and liquid mostly absorbed. Add a splash of water if it dries out prematurely.
  5. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix gently until creamy and well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Optional: Toss in chopped fresh mint or basil for extra brightness. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if using.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with an extra drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Notes

Use fresh lemon zest for best flavor; avoid zesting the bitter white pith. Stir in ricotta off the heat to prevent curdling. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm water or broth to loosen. Stir pasta frequently to prevent sticking. Leftovers keep well for up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat gently with broth or water.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan pasta, spring pea pasta, ricotta pasta, lemon zest pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta

Find it online: https://blipflavor.com/fresh-one-pan-spring-pea-and-ricotta-pasta-recipe-easy-homemade-lemon-zest-meal/