Variations
For a protein boost, consider adding grilled shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy pancetta to this pasta.
These additions not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish heartier, turning it into a more substantial meal.
If you’re vegetarian, try tossing in some cannellini beans or chickpeas for extra texture and plant-based protein.
The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with these additions, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
If you’re looking to switch up the greens, arugula or kale can be used in place of spinach.
Arugula will add a peppery bite, while kale will bring a slightly chewier texture—just be sure to massage the kale first if using it raw, or sauté it briefly to soften. You could also mix in sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
These ingredients add a sweet and tangy depth that complements the lemon and cheese perfectly.
For a gluten-free version, swap the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles. The ricotta sauce is so flavorful that it works well with any base.
If you’re watching your dairy intake, try substituting the ricotta with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or almond-based ricotta.
The result will still be creamy and delicious, with a slightly different but equally satisfying flavor profile.
Tips
To prevent the pasta from sticking together, be sure to reserve a little pasta water before draining. The starchy water can be used to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick, helping it coat the noodles evenly.
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for the brightest flavor.
For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add more zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.
If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount or even sauté it lightly in the olive oil before mixing it into the sauce for a deeper, more mellow garlic flavor.
If your spinach is particularly bulky, you can wilt it slightly before adding it to the pasta.
A quick 30-second blanch in the pasta water or a brief sauté in a pan will soften it without losing its vibrant color.
Don’t overcook the spinach, though—it should still have a bit of texture when you fold it into the dish.
Variations
For a protein boost, consider adding grilled shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy pancetta to this pasta.
These additions not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish heartier, turning it into a more substantial meal.
If you’re vegetarian, try tossing in some cannellini beans or chickpeas for extra texture and plant-based protein.
The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with these additions, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
If you’re looking to switch up the greens, arugula or kale can be used in place of spinach.
Arugula will add a peppery bite, while kale will bring a slightly chewier texture—just be sure to massage the kale first if using it raw, or sauté it briefly to soften. You could also mix in sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
These ingredients add a sweet and tangy depth that complements the lemon and cheese perfectly.
For a gluten-free version, swap the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles. The ricotta sauce is so flavorful that it works well with any base.
If you’re watching your dairy intake, try substituting the ricotta with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or almond-based ricotta.
The result will still be creamy and delicious, with a slightly different but equally satisfying flavor profile.
Tips
To prevent the pasta from sticking together, be sure to reserve a little pasta water before draining. The starchy water can be used to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick, helping it coat the noodles evenly.
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for the brightest flavor.
For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add more zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.
If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount or even sauté it lightly in the olive oil before mixing it into the sauce for a deeper, more mellow garlic flavor.
If your spinach is particularly bulky, you can wilt it slightly before adding it to the pasta.
A quick 30-second blanch in the pasta water or a brief sauté in a pan will soften it without losing its vibrant color.
Don’t overcook the spinach, though—it should still have a bit of texture when you fold it into the dish.
