Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Shrimp

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What is Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Shrimp?

This dish is a delightful mix of tender pasta, creamy ricotta sauce infused with lemon juice and zest, and perfectly cooked shrimp. The lemon adds a refreshing twist that balances the richness of the ricotta and the shrimp’s delicate flavor.

An Inspiring Story Behind the Dish

The inspiration for this dish comes from traditional Italian kitchens, where mothers craft simple and easy recipes that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. One Italian chef recalls:

“This dish was a childhood favorite of mine. My mother would prepare it quickly when my father came home tired from work. She added her own special touch with ricotta she made herself at home.”

Serves 4:

• 1. 400g of pasta (spaghetti or linguine).

• 2. 250g of ricotta cheese.

• 3. 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.

• 4. 400g of shrimp, peeled and deveined.

• 5. 2 garlic cloves, minced.

• 6. Juice of 1 lemon.

• 7. Zest of 1 lemon (finely grated).

• 8. ½ cup of pasta cooking water.

• 9. Salt and pepper to taste.

• 10. 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional).

• 11. Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Pasta:

• • Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente (follow the package instructions).

• • Reserve ½ cup of the cooking water before draining the pasta.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

• • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• • Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.

• • Add the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until they turn pink. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Make the Sauce:

• • In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese with lemon juice and zest.

• • Gradually add the reserved pasta water to the mixture until it becomes creamy.

4. Combine Everything:

• • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated.

• • Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.

5. Serve:

• • Garnish the dish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.

• • Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious flavors.

Why is This Dish Special?

• • Healthy and Quick to Make: It’s packed with protein from shrimp, and the lemon enhances the flavors naturally without the need for artificial additives.

• • Versatile Additions: You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Questions and Answers About Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Shrimp

• 1. Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?

• Yes, you can substitute ricotta with mascarpone for a richer taste or cottage cheese for a lower-calorie option.

2. What’s the best type of pasta for this dish?

• Spaghetti or linguine are ideal as they hold the sauce well.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

• It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead and reheat them together before serving.

4. What’s a good shrimp alternative for vegetarians?

• You can replace shrimp with sliced mushrooms or fried tofu to achieve a similar texture.

• Try making Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Shrimp in your kitchen today and share your experience with us!

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Shrimp [ratings]

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

• • Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

• • Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and grated zest are essential for the zesty flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice.

2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

• • Shrimp cooks quickly. Sauté them for just 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery.

3. Save Pasta Water

• • Always reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. The starchy water helps create a silky, creamy sauce when mixed with ricotta.

4. Balance the Flavors

• • Taste the sauce after mixing. If it feels too tangy, add a small drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the lemon.

5. Customize the Recipe

• • Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.

• • Cheese Alternatives: Try mascarpone for a richer texture or cottage cheese for a lighter option.

6. Cook Pasta Al Dente

• • Ensure the pasta is cooked “al dente” (firm to the bite). Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold the sauce well.

7. Garnish Like a Pro

• • Add a final touch of grated lemon zest, freshly cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley for a vibrant presentation and enhanced flavor.

8. Serve Immediately

• • This dish tastes best when served fresh and hot. The creamy ricotta sauce tends to thicken as it cools.

9. Pair with a Side Dish

• • Complement the dish with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

10. Make It Your Own

• • Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to add a unique twist to the dish.

• By following these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Shrimp that’s sure to impress!