If you’re in the mood for a comforting and rich pasta dish, this creamy spinach and ricotta pasta is the perfect choice. It’s simple to whip up but tastes like it’s straight out of a fine dining restaurant. With fresh spinach and creamy ricotta, this recipe is all about blending flavors and creating a satisfying meal.
This dish combines the earthiness of spinach with the smooth, creamy texture of ricotta cheese, making it a delicious and hearty option for any pasta lover. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is bound to impress.
Comforting Creaminess
This creamy spinach and ricotta pasta embodies comfort food at its finest. The smoothness of the ricotta combined with the fresh flavor of spinach creates a delightful dish that is both rich and satisfying. Each bite offers a unique blend of textures, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.
When you twirl the pasta onto your fork, the luscious white sauce clings lovingly to each piece, ensuring that every mouthful is packed with flavor. The subtle hints of garlic and the warmth from red pepper flakes (if desired) elevate the dish, making it not just a meal, but an experience.
Vibrant Ingredients
The ingredients play a crucial role in the success of this pasta. Fresh spinach brings a lovely green vibrancy, while ricotta provides a creamy texture that is hard to resist. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds a salty richness that complements the dish beautifully.
Using high-quality olive oil enhances the overall flavor profile, while the optional fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a fragrant touch that elevates the dish. This combination of ingredients makes for a visually stunning as well as a delicious meal.
Simple Preparation
Preparing this dish is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Within 25 minutes, you can have a comforting meal on the table that feels fancy enough for a special occasion.
Cook the pasta until just al dente, and while it’s cooking, you can sauté the spinach with garlic. This multitasking approach saves time and keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant. Once everything is combined, a splash of reserved pasta water allows you to achieve your desired creaminess.
A Rustic Presentation
Presenting the creamy spinach and ricotta pasta in a rustic setting adds to its charm. Picture the plate twirled elegantly, garnished with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, all set against a backdrop of a wooden table.
A glass of crisp white wine and a small bowl of olive oil on the side not only complete the meal but also offer an inviting atmosphere that encourages sharing and enjoying good food with loved ones.
Perfect Pairing and Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of light salads or crusty bread. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the pasta.
For those who enjoy wine, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc beautifully complements the flavors of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether served at a casual family dinner or at a more formal gathering, creamy spinach and ricotta pasta is sure to impress.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this pasta delicious, but it also offers nutritional benefits. Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, while ricotta provides a good source of protein. With a balanced combination of carbohydrates and healthy fats, this meal can fit well into a variety of dietary preferences.
With approximately 400 calories per serving, it provides a satisfying yet light option for those mindful of their intake. The dish is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a nourishing choice for the body.
Delicious Spinach and Ricotta Pasta
The creamy spinach and ricotta pasta is a delightful blend of generous ricotta and fresh spinach, enveloped in a smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. It delivers a wonderful balance of flavors, where the richness of the ricotta complements the freshness of the spinach perfectly.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine work well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired creaminess is reached.
- Season: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy spinach and ricotta pasta hot!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g