Lemon Arugula Pasta

October 02, 2025

Ingredients:

0.5x
1x
2x
4x

Ingredients are subject to availability at local stores. Unavailable items will be automatically substituted at best-effort.

  1. Cook Pasta
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Mix Ricotta Sauce
    • In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
    • Add a splash of pasta water to loosen slightly; set aside.
  3. Sauté Shallots & Garlic
    • In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the minced shallot and cook 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent.
    • Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Combine Pasta & Sauce
    • Add drained pasta to the skillet with the shallot mixture.
    • Reduce heat to low, then pour in the ricotta sauce.
    • Toss, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce is creamy and coats the noodles.
  5. Add Arugula
    • Turn off the heat and toss in the arugula until just wilted but still vibrant.
  6. Serve
    • Taste and adjust with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper.
    • Finish with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh cracked pepper.

💡 Optional Add-Ins

  • Protein: Grilled shrimp, chicken, or crispy pancetta.
  • Extra zing: A few capers or a sprinkle of lemon zest on top.

Leave a Reply