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Lemony Ricotta Pasta with Shrimp Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 11 reviews
  • Author: Lora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

A bright and creamy Lemony Ricotta Pasta Sauce with succulent shrimp, combining the richness of ricotta and Parmesan with fresh lemon juice and aromatic basil. Ready in just 25 minutes, this delightful dish brings a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces short-shaped pasta

Sauce

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • ½ cup chopped basil

Shrimp

  • 1 ½ lb shrimp
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 pinch chili flakes


Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
  2. Prepare the ricotta sauce: While the water heats, whisk together ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until well combined.
  3. Optional blending: For a smoother sauce texture, blend the ricotta mixture until creamy and smooth, though this step is optional based on your preference.
  4. Season the shrimp: In another medium bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Toss to coat evenly.
  5. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, about 3 minutes.
  6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta and ricotta mixture into the pan with shrimp. Slowly pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring continuously, until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. You may not need all the water.
  7. Finish and serve: Stir in the chopped basil to incorporate freshness, then serve immediately while warm and flavorful.

Notes

  • Blending the ricotta mixture creates a silkier texture to the sauce, but it is optional if you prefer a chunkier texture.
  • Reserve pasta water is important as it helps in emulsifying the sauce and making it creamy.
  • You can substitute shrimp with chicken or keep it vegetarian by omitting shrimp and adding extra vegetables.
  • Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level.