Creamy Ricotta Pea Pasta

A Light and Refreshing Pasta Dish for Any Occasion

This Creamy Ricotta Pea Pasta is the perfect balance of fresh, creamy, and satisfying. With tender pasta coated in a luscious ricotta sauce and sweet peas adding a pop of freshness, this dish is simple yet elegant. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a light pasta dish for spring and summer gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Quick & easy – Ready in under 20 minutes!
• Creamy yet light – Ricotta keeps it rich without being heavy.
• Perfect for all seasons – Fresh peas shine in the spring, but frozen peas work year-round.
• Customizable – Add lemon zest, chili flakes, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Ingredient Notes

• Pasta – Short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or orecchiette works best.
• Ricotta Cheese – Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth and a salty, nutty flavor.
• Peas – Fresh or frozen both work well.
• Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
• Olive Oil – Enhances the creaminess and adds richness.
• Lemon Zest & Juice – Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
• Black Pepper & Chili Flakes (Optional) – Adds subtle heat and spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Combine Everything

• Add cooked pasta, peas, and ricotta mixture to the pan.
• Stir, adding reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce is smooth and coats the pasta.

4. Garnish & Serve

• Top with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Ricotta Pea Pasta

• Use high-quality ricotta – Fresh, whole-milk ricotta makes a huge difference.
• Don’t skip the pasta water – It helps emulsify the sauce and make it silky smooth.
• Serve immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh while warm and creamy.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen peas?

Yes! Frozen peas work perfectly—just add them directly to the pasta water in the last minute of cooking.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or orecchiette holds the creamy sauce best.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ricotta sauce in advance and mix it in when ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Ricotta Pea Pasta is an easy, elegant dish that’s packed with flavor yet light enough for any occasion. Try it out and let me know your favorite additions!

Print