Stanley Tucci’s Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula

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When it comes to a pasta dish that feels both luxurious and refreshingly light, Stanley Tucci’s Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula is in a league of its own. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like summer in every bite: bright with lemon, creamy with ricotta, and grounded by the peppery earthiness of fresh arugula. You don’t need to be a chef or an actor to pull off this elegant plate — it comes together in less than 30 minutes and feels like something straight out of a sun-drenched Italian kitchen.

This pasta is perfect for weeknights when you want comfort food without feeling weighed down. The lemon zest and juice cut through the creaminess of the ricotta, keeping the sauce delicate and light. Paired with the subtle bite of arugula and tender noodles, each forkful is both cozy and revitalizing. If you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly dish that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss, this one deserves a place on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta

This dish strikes a rare balance between creamy and fresh, making it incredibly satisfying without being heavy. The combination of ricotta and lemon creates a bright sauce that clings to every strand of pasta without overpowering. It’s a great way to add more greens to your meal thanks to the arugula, and it makes a beautiful presentation for guests or solo dinner nights alike.

It’s also endlessly customizable. Want to add grilled chicken or shrimp? Go for it. Prefer spinach instead of arugula? That works too. But honestly, the beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pastas like rigatoni or penne work well here, but spaghetti or fettuccine are also excellent for that satisfying twirl. The important thing is to use a shape that holds onto the creamy lemon ricotta sauce. If you’re going gluten-free, any pasta you enjoy will do the trick. And don’t forget to reserve a bit of pasta water — it helps the sauce come together beautifully.

Ingredients for the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula

This pasta is made with just a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together effortlessly.

• Pasta
• Whole milk ricotta
• Lemon zest and juice
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh arugula
• Salt and black pepper
• Reserved pasta water

The pasta serves as the hearty base, while the ricotta gives the dish its signature creaminess. Lemon zest and juice add brightness and acidity, waking up the flavor of every bite. Garlic and olive oil build a savory base, and Parmesan brings depth and a touch of saltiness. Arugula offers freshness and a peppery kick, making this feel vibrant and healthy. A splash of reserved pasta water ensures the sauce is silky and cohesive.

How To Make the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture

While the pasta cooks, whisk together the ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Add a few tablespoons of hot pasta water to loosen it into a sauce-like consistency.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Turn off the heat and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the hot pasta directly into the ricotta mixture. Pour in the garlic oil and toss everything together until well coated. Add more pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.

Step 5: Add the Greens

Gently fold in the arugula. The residual heat from the pasta will wilt it just enough without making it soggy.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Top with freshly grated Parmesan before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve and Store This Pasta

This pasta is best served immediately while warm, when the ricotta is creamy and the arugula is just barely wilted. It serves 2 to 3 people as a main course or 4 as a light side. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk to revive the sauce without breaking the texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta?

Grilled Shrimp

The bright flavors of lemon pair perfectly with juicy grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.

Garlic Bread

A crunchy, buttery slice of garlic bread helps soak up every bit of creamy ricotta sauce.

Tomato Basil Salad

A simple fresh salad with cherry tomatoes and basil adds a cool and juicy contrast.

Roasted Asparagus

Its slightly bitter bite complements the sweetness of the lemon and creaminess of the ricotta.

Pan-Seared Chicken

Add protein with lightly seasoned chicken breast or thighs for a heartier meal.

White Wine

A chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will match the brightness of the pasta.

Crispy Chickpeas

Tossed with spices, they make a crunchy, fun topping or a side snack.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula, try one of these next:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni
• Rattlesnake Pasta Recipe
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find for a cozy night in or a bright dinner party.

Let me know how your version turned out in the comments. Did you add a protein? Did you try a different green? I love hearing how these meals evolve in your kitchen.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting pasta and meal inspiration on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next favorite.

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