Lemon Basil Ricotta Pasta

This delightful Lemon Basil Ricotta Pasta combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the bright freshness of lemon and aromatic basil. It's a simple yet elegant dish that balances traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist. Perfect for a light dinner or a sophisticated lunch, this recipe is vegetarian and can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets.

Ingredients:

• 300g pasta of choice (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped basil. Mix until well incorporated.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with garlic, and then stir in the ricotta mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the pasta seems dry, add a little pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Serve immediately, topped with additional basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.