If you’re looking for a bright, fresh, and utterly satisfying pasta dish, you are going to adore this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas Recipe. It is the perfect springtime meal that celebrates the cheerful zing of lemon, creamy ricotta, and sweet peas all tossed together with tender pasta. Each bite feels like sunshine on a plate—comforting and refreshing at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely lunch with friends, this dish is designed to bring simple ingredients into a harmonious, flavorful celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity: every ingredient has a purpose, whether it adds creaminess, brightness, or that essential pop of color and texture that makes the dish feel special. These basic pantry staples and fresh produce come together effortlessly to create something truly memorable.
- 12 oz pasta (linguine or penne): Your tender base that carries the creamy sauce and peas beautifully.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas: Adds a sweet, vibrant burst of green that celebrates spring.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creates a lush, creamy texture that’s mild and comforting.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp, nutty depth that enriches the ricotta’s creaminess.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Delivers fragrant citrus oils that lift the entire dish with brightness.
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons): Adds tang and freshness to balance the richness.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Gives a subtle aromatic bite without overpowering the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water: A kitchen secret that helps marry the sauce and pasta perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley: Provides a fresh herbal note and pretty garnish.
How to Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Peas
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta as it cooks, which is key for great flavor. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions for al dente perfection. In the last two minutes of cooking, add the peas right into the boiling water with the pasta. This way, the peas soften slightly but keep their lovely bright color and slight snap. Before draining, reserve a quarter cup of the starchy pasta water—this will become your sauce’s silky binder. Drain pasta and peas together.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Ricotta Sauce
While the pasta cooks, grab a large bowl and combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. The tang of lemon and the sharpness of Parmesan balance impeccably with the mellow ricotta for a sauce that feels decadent yet fresh.
Step 3: Toss Pasta and Sauce Together
Immediately add the hot pasta and peas to your bowl of ricotta sauce. Toss everything with loving attention so each strand of pasta is generously coated. If you find the mixture a bit thick, slowly drizzle in some of the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches a silky, luscious consistency that clings beautifully to the noodles.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Always taste before serving! Add a pinch more salt or pepper if desired, or a little extra lemon juice if you want to dial up the brightness. This is where you make the dish your own, balancing creaminess, tang, and earthiness just as you like.
How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add visual appeal but bring an aromatic freshness that complements the dish’s creamy texture and citrus notes beautifully. For a special finishing touch, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or some toasted pine nuts provide subtle richness and crunch.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp green salads or roasted vegetables that add texture contrasts and nutritional balance. For a heartier meal, grilled chicken breasts or a plate of white beans work wonderfully to boost protein without overpowering the delicate flavors of the Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant peas and lemon zest atop the creamy pasta. For gatherings, present it family-style in a large serving dish garnished generously with herbs and a wedge of lemon. This invites everyone to dive in and customize their plates with extra lemon juice or cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will absorb more sauce and thicken overnight, so keep a little extra pasta water on hand to loosen it up when reheating.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as ricotta-based sauces don’t freeze and reheat as well. However, you can freeze the cooked pasta and peas without the ricotta mixture for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and toss with freshly mixed ricotta sauce for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or a little cream to bring back its creamy texture. Microwave it covered but stir halfway through to ensure even heating and to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas in Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peas work wonderfully and are often picked at peak ripeness, locking in their sweetness and color. Just add them to the pasta water at the end of cooking to thaw and soften perfectly.
Is this pasta recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal rennet-based ingredients. It’s a satisfying option for anyone following a vegetarian diet.
Can I substitute ricotta cheese with another cheese?
If ricotta isn’t available, you could try replacing it with mascarpone for an even richer finish or a combination of cream cheese and plain yogurt for a similar creamy texture with a slight tang.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this vegan, try using plant-based ricotta alternatives made from tofu or almonds and a vegan Parmesan. Also, be sure to use pasta without eggs. Lemon juice and peas remain perfect for flavor and freshness.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Linguine or penne are excellent choices because their shape holds onto the sauce so well. However, you can experiment with fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti based on what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Peas Recipe is a true gem for anyone who loves quick, bright, and creamy pasta dishes that feel like a special treat without much fuss. It’s easy to throw together, vibrant in flavor, and endlessly adaptable to what you have in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and add your own twist—it’s one of those recipes that quickly becomes a favorite to revisit time and time again.
