Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces bow tie pasta; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (basil or parsley)

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When I first tried making bow tie pasta with lemon ricotta, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a refreshing dish. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon brought the whole meal to life, making it a family favorite in no time. It’s perfect for a quick weekday dinner yet elegant enough for guests. I love serving it warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, elevating the flavors while keeping things easy. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:48:51.732Z

When I first made this bow tie pasta with lemon ricotta, I was pleasantly surprised by how the flavors mingled. The creamy ricotta contrasts beautifully with the sharpness of the lemon, creating a unique and delightful sauce. I found that mixing the ricotta off the heat helped maintain a luscious texture, preventing it from becoming too gooey when combined with the pasta.

Another tip I discovered was to squeeze fresh lemon juice right before serving, as it brightens the entire dish and enhances the flavors. I love adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic touch. This dish quickly became a staple in our household!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing balance of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Elegant enough for entertaining guests or special occasions

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For this Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta, the freshness of your ingredients will significantly impact the final dish. Opt for high-quality ricotta cheese with a creamy texture, as it forms the base of the sauce, providing richness that balances out the zesty lemon. Fresh lemons are essential, as the zest and juice work together to brighten the entire dish. If you can't find fresh herbs like basil or parsley, consider using dried herbs, though the flavor won't be as vibrant.

Using freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated cheese will enhance the taste and texture of your pasta. The freshly grated variety melts beautifully and mingles perfectly with the ricotta, adding a nutty flavor that complements the lemon. In contrast, pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect its texture and melting quality.

Mastering the Sauce Technique

When combining the cooked pasta with the ricotta mixture, it’s essential to toss gently to coat every piece of pasta without breaking the delicate bow ties. A non-stick skillet is ideal for this step as it minimizes sticking and allows for easy mixing. If the pasta seems dry, don’t hesitate to incorporate additional pasta water gradually; this starchy liquid not only adjusts the consistency but also helps bind the sauce to the pasta.

If you're aiming for a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche alongside the olive oil in your ricotta mixture. This adaptation will create a velvety texture that clings perfectly to the pasta. Always taste your sauce before serving; a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the dish immensely.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

12 ounces bow tie pasta
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (basil or parsley)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect bow tie pasta with lemon ricotta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Combine and Adjust

Gradually add the cooked pasta into the ricotta mixture, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little bit at a time until reaching the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Remember to serve warm for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a little heat. Alternatively, sauté some garlic in olive oil before adding to the ricotta for an aromatic boost!

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the dish visually and add extra flavor, serve your Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta in warm bowls. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few extra sprigs of fresh herbs on top can elevate the presentation. Pair it with a light green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast that balances the creamy pasta.

This dish also works wonderfully as a side for grilled vegetables or seafood. Consider serving it alongside grilled shrimp or pan-seared chicken, which complements the bright flavors of the lemon ricotta without overpowering them.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of pasta water to prevent the pasta from drying out, and warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently to recoat the pasta with the ricotta sauce, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan. Avoid microwaving it, as this can lead to uneven heating.

For make-ahead options, prepare the ricotta mixture and cook the pasta a few hours in advance. Store them separately until you're ready to serve. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the pasta, combine it with the ricotta mixture, and enjoy your fresh-tasting dish without compromising on texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but bow ties add a fun touch.

→ Is there a non-dairy alternative for ricotta?

Yes, you can use tofu or cashew-based ricotta to make it vegan.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would complement the flavors well.