Lemon, Ricotta & English Peas Pasta
The nutritional breakdown shown is based on the particular brands used for the recipe during testing and can vary based on the ingredient/brands used - remember that you can always flex the macros up, down, or sideways to suit your specific needs.
The Details.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 6 portions
Here’s a pretty straightforward meal that packs a punch of flavor while staying sane in the macro department. I like to think of this as an adult version of Mac & Cheese but with a bright lemony pop. A vital piece of this recipe is to use *cue Ina Garten voice* high-quality and fresh ingredients whenever possible.
The Ingredients.
1 lb. Cavatappi
1 lb. English peas, fresh or frozen
8 oz. whole-milk ricotta
1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
1 tbsp. grated lemon zest, fresh
1/4 cup lemon juice, fresh
Kosher salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes
Basil leaves torn, fresh
The Method.
In a large stock pot, fill with water and bring to a boil. When water is boiling, add a handful of kosher salt, think salty like the ocean, add pasta, and cook for approximately 8 to 9 minutes or until al dente*.
During the last two minutes, add the English peas to the cooking pasta and let the peas cook*. The peas will turn a gorgeous bright green.
When the pasta/peas finish, remove 1 cup of pasta water, set it to the side, drain the pasta/peas, and set this combo aside but close.
In the same large stock pot, add the ricotta, Parmigiano, lemon zest, lemon juice, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and a couple of cracks of black pepper, and stir until well combined.
Add 1/2 cup pasta water to the cheese & lemon sauce, and stir until smooth. Add the pasta/peas combo and stir vigorously until the combo is well coated. You know it’s coming together when you hear the squishy pasta sounds. Feel free to add more pasta water for a more luscious sauce. #liquidgold
Divide the pasta among bowls, then garnish with freshly grated Parmigiano, a couple of cracks of black pepper, red pepper flakes, and torn basil leaves.
Note: Make sure not to overcook the pasta or the peas - peas/pasta will reach #mushtown quickly.
