Description
This Creamy Ricotta Pea Pasta is the perfect balance of rich, creamy ricotta and sweet, tender peas, all wrapped around your favorite pasta. Quick, easy, and full of fresh flavors, this dish is great for a light weeknight meal or a spring-inspired gathering. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a comforting yet refreshing pasta dish!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (rigatoni, fusilli, or orecchiette)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
For the Ricotta Sauce:
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
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In the last minute of cooking, add peas to the boiling pasta.
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Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Sauce
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In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Sauté the Garlic
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Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Combine Everything
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Reduce heat to low and add the cooked pasta, peas, and ricotta mixture to the pan.
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Gradually add the reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and coats the pasta.
5. Garnish & Serve
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Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Drizzle with olive oil and top with fresh basil or parsley.
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Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use high-quality ricotta – Whole milk ricotta provides the creamiest texture.
- Don’t skip the pasta water – It helps emulsify the sauce for a silky, smooth consistency.
- Serve immediately – Best enjoyed fresh while warm and creamy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g