Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces bow tie pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love this Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta! It's a dish that brings a burst of freshness and creaminess to the table. The combination of zesty lemon and rich ricotta cheese creates a delightful balance that elevates the pasta experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe showcases how simple ingredients can turn into something extraordinary. We’ve enjoyed it with friends and family, and the compliments just keep coming. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why it has become a favorite in our house!

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:33:36.827Z

Making Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta was an experiment that turned into a beloved recipe in my kitchen. The bright notes of lemon zest combined with the creamy ricotta create a flavor profile that makes each bite feel special. I was pleasantly surprised at how simple the preparation was while still impressing everyone at the dinner table.

One key to making this dish successful is to use high-quality ricotta. I’ve tried it with several brands, and the taste difference is remarkable! It’s amazing how a small twist in ingredient choice can elevate a dish so significantly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty lemon flavor that refreshes your palate.
Creamy ricotta that adds a luscious texture.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights.

Perfecting the Bow Tie Pasta

Cooking pasta to the perfect al dente texture is essential for this dish. You want the bow tie pasta to have a nice bite and not be mushy. Follow the package instructions for timing, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, but taste a piece as it approaches the end of the recommended cooking time. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly when combined with the warm sauce, so undercooking it by a minute is a good strategy.

Be sure to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a vital ingredient for achieving the ideal sauce consistency. Start by adding a couple of tablespoons to the sauce once it’s mixed with the pasta, and stir well. If the sauce seems too thick, continue to add small amounts of the reserved water until it's glossy and clings nicely to the pasta.

The Role of Lemon and Ricotta

Lemon zest and juice play crucial roles beyond mere flavor; they brighten the entire dish. Using fresh lemon really enhances the taste, so opt for organic if possible to avoid any waxy coatings. The zest provides aromatic oils that will infuse your sauce, while the juice adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the ricotta.

Ricotta cheese is not just a creamy filler; it is the heart of this sauce. Its mild flavor allows the lemon to shine, while its texture transforms from thick to silky smooth as it emulsifies with the pasta. If you need a lighter option, you could substitute part of the ricotta with Greek yogurt, which will maintain creaminess while adding a slight tang.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a fresh twist, consider adding seasonal vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or asparagus. Sauté them briefly in olive oil before combining with the pasta and sauce. This not only adds texture but also brings beautiful color to the dish. Another delicious idea is to incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for protein, making the meal heartier while maintaining its appeal.

As this dish can be a bit heavy due to the creaminess of the ricotta, serve it with a side salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. This will help balance the richness of the pasta. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to rehydrate the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces bow tie pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste

For the Lemon Ricotta Sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Combine all ingredients in a bowl for the sauce while the pasta cooks.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.

Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In the same pot, add the pasta and olive oil. Pour the lemon ricotta sauce over the pasta and mix well. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach desired creaminess.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

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

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat. This pairs beautifully with the lemon.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your lemon ricotta sauce turns out too thick after mixing with the pasta, don’t fret! As mentioned earlier, a little reserved pasta water can do wonders in loosening things up. Just gradually stir it in until you achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, consider simmering the mixture on low heat for a couple of minutes to encourage the sauce to thicken up, being careful not to overcook the pasta in the process.

Another common issue may arise if the ricotta is clumpy when mixing. To avoid this, ensure you're mixing it thoroughly in a bowl before adding the other ingredients. A quick whisk can break up any lumps and create a smoother consistency. If you find that you forgot the step, you can use a hand blender to get the desired smoothness before mixing it with the pasta.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

While this Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the lemon ricotta sauce a day in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before mixing with the pasta, and add a splash of lemon juice to revive its flavor if needed.

If you decide to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a little more lemon juice and fresh basil right before serving to refresh the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While bow tie pasta works great, feel free to use any shape you like.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance, but it's best to cook the pasta fresh just before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the ricotta with a vegan alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ What can I serve with Bow Tie Pasta?

This pasta pairs nicely with a light salad or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with grilled chicken for added protein.