Embrace the vibrant flavors of Italy with Giada De Laurentiis’s Lemon Ricotta Pasta, a dish that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying. This recipe captures the essence of Italian cooking: fresh, high-quality ingredients combined with a touch of culinary magic. Imagine twirls of perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a creamy, lemony sauce infused with the delicate sweetness of ricotta cheese. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a burst of sunshine on your plate that will transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast. Giada’s approach to cooking emphasizes simplicity and fresh ingredients, and this recipe is a perfect example of her philosophy. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Prepare to be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can create such a symphony of flavors! This Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a testament to the beauty of Italian cooking and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s admire this culinary masterpiece. We’ll show you how to prepare this Giada De Laurentiis recipe from scratch in a simple and easy-to-follow manner. This pasta dish, inspired by Giada De Laurentiis, is a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to impress. This recipe is a fantastic way to experience the flavors of Italy at home. This particular recipe is a fantastic introduction to the world of Italian cuisine. It’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per Serving (Approximate)
Please note that these are approximate values and may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This recipe is a great source of protein and carbohydrates, making it a balanced meal. The nutritional information provides a general guideline, but individual needs may vary.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini) | 1 pound |
| Whole milk ricotta cheese | 15 ounces |
| Fresh lemon, zested and juiced | 2 large |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Fresh basil leaves, chopped | 1/4 cup, plus more for garnish |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, plus more for serving |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | Pinch, to taste |
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: While the pasta is cooking, in a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped basil, and Parmesan cheese. Season generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta and immediately add it to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce and create a creamier texture.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil is also a welcome addition.
This Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion. The freshness of the lemon, the creaminess of the ricotta, and the simplicity of the preparation make it a winner every time. It’s a dish that truly embodies the essence of Italian cuisine.
Serving Suggestions
- Wine Pairing: Pair this pasta with a crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of the wine will complement the lemon flavor beautifully.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus.
- Protein Additions: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp. Sauté the protein with the garlic and olive oil before adding the ricotta mixture.
- Garnish: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese are essential, but you can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a drizzle of good quality olive oil for extra richness.
This Giada De Laurentiis recipe is incredibly versatile, making it a great choice for a variety of occasions. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or add your favorite vegetables. The key is to balance the flavors and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing this delicious meal. The success of this Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta lies in the quality of the ingredients. Using the freshest possible lemon, high-quality ricotta, and fresh herbs will elevate the flavors and make the dish truly exceptional.
This Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta recipe is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. It is easy to follow, yet the results are truly restaurant-quality. Enjoy making this delicious dish and savoring every bite! The beautiful balance of flavors makes this Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta a truly unforgettable meal. The simplicity of the recipe belies its sophisticated taste. This is a dish that will impress your guests and become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
This dish, Giada De Laurentiis’s Lemon Ricotta Pasta, is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. The combination of creamy ricotta, bright lemon, and fresh basil is a match made in culinary heaven. This recipe is a perfect example of Giada’s philosophy of creating delicious, approachable food. The recipe is not only delicious but also provides a wonderful opportunity to experiment and personalize the dish to your taste. If you enjoy this Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta, you might also want to explore other recipes from Giada’s collection, which are all designed to bring joy and simplicity to your cooking.
Remember, the key to success with this Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta is to use the best quality ingredients you can find. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and high-quality ricotta cheese will make a world of difference in the final product. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste the sauce as you go and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed. This recipe for Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to slow down, enjoy the process of cooking, and savor the flavors of Italy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this dish is sure to bring a smile to your face.
The Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your preferences. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins. For example, you could add some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Or, for a heartier meal, you could add grilled chicken or shrimp. The possibilities are endless! This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Italy at home. It is a testament to the beauty of Italian cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into something truly special.
In conclusion, Giada De Laurentiis’s Lemon Ricotta Pasta is a culinary gem that deserves a spot in your recipe collection. Its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and prepare to create a dish that will transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Italy. This Giada De Laurentiis Lemon Ricotta Pasta recipe is one you’ll return to again and again. The ease of preparation and the incredible taste make it a winner every time. Enjoy the journey of creating this delicious dish, and most importantly, enjoy the fruits of your labor!
