Shrimp Pasta With Lemon Ricotta

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Lemon Ricotta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Smart Collection

I absolutely love making this Shrimp Pasta With Lemon Ricotta when I'm in the mood for something light yet satisfying. The combination of succulent shrimp and creamy lemon ricotta truly elevates the dish. It’s quick to prepare, which makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough to serve guests. The balance of flavors—zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and rich cheese—creates a delightful and comforting meal that feels both indulgent and refreshing at the same time. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-04-11T21:00:55.133Z

When I first tried making shrimp pasta with lemon ricotta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The key is to sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink, so they're juicy and tender. I also discovered that adding a splash of the pasta cooking water to the ricotta helps create a smooth, creamy sauce that clings to each noodle perfectly.

One evening, I served this dish to a couple of friends, and they raved about the flavors. It’s a wonderful way to combine the richness of the cheese with the brightness of the lemon. I love finishing it off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that extra pop of flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy ricotta combined with zesty lemon for a refreshing twist
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight
Succulent shrimp pairs perfectly with the rich pasta

Ingredient Spotlight: Lemon Ricotta

The lemon ricotta in this dish serves as both a creamy base and a brightening agent, giving the pasta a delightful freshness. Ricotta cheese’s smooth texture helps to coat each strand of spaghetti or linguine evenly, ensuring that every bite is rich and satisfying. Adding lemon zest amps up the flavor, creating a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought lemon ricotta, but making your own by mixing plain ricotta with fresh lemon juice and zest really brings this recipe to life.

When selecting ricotta, look for a brand that uses high-quality milk for the best flavor. Freshness is key here; avoid those that contain preservatives for the purest taste. If you're watching your calorie intake, consider using part-skim ricotta, which still offers creaminess but with fewer calories. For a dairy-free option, try substituting ricotta with a cashew-based cream blended with lemon juice, creating a similar texture and flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

Cooking shrimp to perfection can be a bit tricky, but a few tips can help you achieve that ideal tender texture. Begin by ensuring that your shrimp are completely thawed if they were frozen. Pat them dry with paper towels before cooking; this prevents steaming and allows for better browning and flavor development. Sauté the shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice golden color, which adds depth to the overall dish.

Keep an eye on cooking times; shrimp are done when they turn opaque and curl slightly, typically around 3-4 minutes. If you overcook them, they can become rubbery, so a little undercooking is okay as they’ll continue to cook after being removed from the heat. If you're not a fan of shrimp or looking for alternatives, sautéed scallops or chicken can be delicious substitutes—just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious Shrimp Pasta With Lemon Ricotta.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start cooking. This will streamline the process and ensure a great outcome!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Shrimp Pasta With Lemon Ricotta.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with lemon zest and juice. Mix well, then add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach desired creaminess.

Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta and lemon ricotta sauce to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together until well coated, adding more pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Pasta With Lemon Ricotta!

Enjoy cooking! Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or swap out the shrimp for scallops based on your preference.

Make-Ahead Tips

For a hassle-free dinner, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. You can clean and devein the shrimp a day early and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The lemon ricotta sauce can also be made ahead of time; simply mix it up, store it covered in the refrigerator, and stir in a bit of reserved pasta water when you're ready to use it. This way, dinner can be ready in 15 minutes!

If you're planning to enjoy leftovers, cook the pasta slightly less than al dente and toss it in a tablespoon of olive oil before refrigerating. This prevents sticking when reheating. When you've warmed up the pasta, add in the shrimp and ricotta sauce, adjusting with more pasta water as needed until it reaches the desired creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

While this Shrimp Pasta With Lemon Ricotta is satisfying on its own, consider rounding out the meal with a side salad or garlic bread for a more substantial dining experience. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the pasta without overpowering it. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving—it adds a salty nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the lemony ricotta.

For a touch of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will infuse the oil with a nice warmth that enhances the overall flavor without overtaking the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, toss in some seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes towards the end of the shrimp cooking time for added color and nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cream cheese or mascarpone can be great alternatives!

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular spaghetti.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini would work great.