Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces bow tie pasta; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Wellness Table

I absolutely love preparing Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta when I want something fresh and light. The simplicity of this dish allows the bright flavors of lemon and creamy ricotta to shine through, making it a go-to in my kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, taking no more than 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy weeknights or even a casual gathering. The unique bow tie shape adds a fun twist that both kids and adults enjoy, making it a family favorite!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:09:36.641Z

When I first tried this Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta, I was amazed at how simple ingredients can create such a rich and delicious dish. I experimented with different types of pasta, but the bow tie shape really holds on to the creamy ricotta and zesty lemon perfectly, making every bite satisfying.

One key tip I learned is to use freshly grated lemon zest, as it elevates the flavor remarkably. It’s amazing how just a little zest can brighten up the entire dish. This recipe has quickly become a staple in our household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor combined with creamy ricotta cheese
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A visually appealing dish that delights both kids and adults

The Magic of Lemon in Pasta

The bright, zesty flavor of lemon elevates this pasta dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy ricotta. When incorporating lemon juice and zest, opt for organic lemons if possible, as they are less likely to be coated in wax. Zesting the lemon before juicing makes the process easier, and you’ll want to measure both the zest and juice precisely to achieve the perfect balance of acidity and creaminess in your sauce.

A crucial step is ensuring the lemon juice is fresh. Bottled lemon juice can lack the vibrant flavor needed for this recipe, so I encourage using freshly squeezed juice. If you’re looking to reduce acidity, you can substitute half of the lemon juice with a splash of white wine vinegar for a nuanced flavor that complements the ricotta beautifully.

Mastering the Pasta-Cheese Connection

Cooking the bow tie pasta to al dente is vital for texture. To achieve this, follow the package instructions closely, typically boiling for about 10-12 minutes. You want to taste the pasta as it approaches al dente; it should be firm to the bite yet not raw. Retaining some of the starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce, so remember to set aside a cup before draining.

When blending the pasta with the ricotta mixture, do so gently. This technique ensures that the pasta remains coated without breaking apart. Gradually adding reserved pasta water allows you to control the creaminess, ensuring the sauce clings to the pasta beautifully. Opt for a large mixing bowl to give yourself ample space to work without making a mess.

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta

Ingredients

12 ounces bow tie pasta
1 cup ricotta cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to always have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Steps to Prepare

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked pasta into the ricotta mixture, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess.

Garnish and Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, you can incorporate sautéed vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes to complement the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil and microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or gently reheat in a pan over low heat to prevent the pasta from becoming rubbery.

If you’re looking to prep this meal in advance, consider making the ricotta mixture a day ahead. Store it tightly covered in the fridge and cook your pasta right before serving. This will help maintain the freshness of the flavors while allowing you to enjoy a stress-free cooking experience on a busy weeknight.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding vegetables. Fresh peas or sautéed spinach can provide vibrant color and additional nutrients, mixing perfectly with the creamy sauce. If you want some protein, grilled chicken or shrimp tossed in at the end elevates the dish to a hearty main meal, ideal for lunch or dinner.

For a different twist, consider swapping out the ricotta for goat cheese or feta, both of which have a tangy profile that complements the lemon nicely. If you're looking to make this dish vegan, substitute the cheese with a plant-based ricotta or cashew cream. Just ensure that whatever substitute you choose, you maintain a creamy consistency that binds beautifully with the pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just combine it with the pasta right before serving.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bow tie pasta is fun, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

It's best to avoid freezing as the texture of the ricotta may change. However, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.