Pasta with Ricotta and Spinach

Pasta with Ricotta and Spinach is a creamy and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh ricotta cheese and sautéed spinach, creating a delightful balance of textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

• Pasta (penne or fusilli) - 150 grams
• Ricotta cheese - 200 grams
• Fresh spinach - 150 grams
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Parmesan cheese (grated) - 30 grams
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Red pepper flakes - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with spinach.
5. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir this mixture into the pasta and spinach, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
6. Toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbs: 55 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from ricotta cheese, supporting muscle health.
• Contains iron and vitamins A and C from spinach, promoting overall health.

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