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Stanley Tucci’s Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Stanley Tucci's Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta for Quick Elegance

Enjoy Stanley Tucci's Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta, a quick and comforting dish bursting with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta The perfect shape for capturing that luscious creamy sauce.
For the Sauce
  • 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese Adds rich, creamy texture without being too heavy.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Infuses brightness.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Balances the richness of the cheese.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances savory depth with a nutty flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For smoothing out the sauce.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Provides warmth and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Crucial for seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Brings mild heat.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a kick.
For the Finish
  • 2 cups Arugula Adds fresh crunch.
  • 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water For creamy texture in the sauce.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander

Method
 

Main Instructions
  1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente. Remember to reserve ½ cup of that pasta water before draining!
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the hot drained rigatoni to the ricotta mixture. Toss it gently, slowly incorporating reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta.
  4. Add Arugula: Fold in the arugula, letting it wilt slightly from the warmth of the pasta.
  5. Taste and Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Drizzle with olive oil or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for extra brightness. It is recommended to enjoy this dish fresh for the best taste.

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