Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; Salt, for water; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend dish. The combination of the tender pasta with a creamy, zesty ricotta sauce instantly transports me to a cozy Italian kitchen. I enjoy how fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor and the ricotta creates a silky texture. It’s a simple recipe that never fails to impress, and even better, it's ready in just 30 minutes!

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:17:36.728Z

When I first tried making Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create an explosion of flavors. I remember squeezing fresh lemons, and the aroma instantly filled my kitchen with brightness. It's great for those who crave a rich taste without spending all day cooking.

One tip I found useful is to use high-quality ricotta; it really transforms the dish. Plus, don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce's creaminess. This little trick makes a huge difference in the final texture!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The bright, refreshing taste of lemon complements the creamy ricotta perfectly
Bow tie pasta adds a fun twist and holds the sauce beautifully
It's a quick and easy dish ideal for both weeknights and special occasions

The Art of Cooking Bow Tie Pasta

Cooking bow tie pasta al dente is essential to achieving the ideal texture for this dish. I recommend boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water for about 10-12 minutes, or until it has a slight firmness when bitten. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook a bit after you drain it, so a minute early is better than a minute too late. Using a timer can help you avoid overcooking and ensure that the pasta is perfectly tender without being mushy.

When draining the pasta, don’t forget to reserve about a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water is a secret weapon that can help adjust the creaminess of your ricotta sauce. If you find the sauce is looking a bit too thick after mixing, add a tablespoon or two of the pasta water, stirring until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Perfecting the Ricotta Sauce

The ricotta sauce is the heart of this dish, and getting its texture just right is key. Be sure to combine the ricotta cheese with lemon zest and juice in a mixing bowl carefully, as overmixing can make it grainy. A gentle fold with a spatula until combined ensures a creamy and smooth result. The addition of Parmesan adds not only flavor but also helps to thicken the sauce slightly, making it cling beautifully to your pasta.

If you're looking to lighten the dish or make it dairy-free, silken tofu can be a great substitute for ricotta. Just blend it until smooth with the lemon zest and juice, then continue with the recipe as usual. Additionally, if you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while mixing the sauce.

Serving and Storing Tips

This dish is best served fresh, immediately after combining the pasta and sauce to maintain that creamy texture. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help bring back the sauce's creaminess, warming over low heat to avoid separating the ingredients.

For a colorful twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini during the final mixing stage. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutrition and a pop of color to the dish. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only offer great flavor but also elevate the visual appeal when sprinkled on top.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta

Pasta Ingredients

12 oz bow tie pasta
Salt, for water

Ricotta Sauce Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Mix and match your favorite herbs to personalize the flavor!

Instructions

Instructions for Preparing Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

Prepare the Ricotta Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Toss the drained pasta with the ricotta sauce in a large skillet over low heat. If the sauce is too thick, add additional pasta water. Garnish with olive oil and fresh herbs. Serve immediately.

Enjoy this delightful dish with a side salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an added punch of flavor, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes into the pasta before serving.

Ingredient Spotlight: Ricotta Cheese

Using high-quality ricotta can transform this dish from simple to extraordinary. Look for fresh, whole-milk ricotta for a rich taste and creamy texture. If only low-fat or part-skim is available, consider adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enrich the sauce. Some brands even offer flavored ricotta that could introduce an interesting twist to your dish.

To further enhance the flavor profile, try mixing in other ingredients like garlic or finely chopped spinach before adding the ricotta sauce to the pasta. This will create a more complex taste and make the dish even more satisfying.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to serve a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled. Simply double the amount of pasta and ricotta sauce ingredients and prepare in the same manner. Just be sure that your pot is large enough to handle the increased volume when cooking the pasta.

However, keep in mind that if you double the recipe, taste and seasoning adjustments may be necessary. Especially with salt and pepper, as doubling does not always equate to the same flavor balance. Always taste and adjust before serving.

Storage and Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for about 3 days. To freeze, portion the pasta and sauce into airtight containers after they have cooled down. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of pasta water as needed.

To ensure the best flavor, I recommend reheating gently over low heat instead of in the microwave, which can alter the sauce’s creamy texture. Adding fresh herbs upon serving can also help revitalize the dish’s flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ricotta sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute, though the taste and texture will differ slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms are great additions.