Introduction to Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Why Spinach Ricotta Pasta is a Game-Changer for Young Professionals
If you’re a young professional juggling work, social life, and personal interests, finding time to whip up a nutritious meal can feel overwhelming. Enter spinach ricotta pasta with lemon butter chicken—the perfect dish that strikes a harmonious balance between taste and convenience. This recipe not only boasts vibrant flavors but also packs a nutrition punch, making it ideal for a quick dinner after a long day.
Imagine a plate of linguine enveloped in a creamy ricotta sauce, brightened by the zest of lemon and the freshness of spinach. Paired with succulent lemon butter chicken, this meal elevates a simple dinner to a delightful dining experience. Not only is it indulgent, but it’s also easy to make in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy weeknights.
Additionally, the ingredients are mostly pantry staples—ricotta, pasta, fresh spinach—so you can create this comforting dish without the stress of shopping for elusive items. It’s a smart, tasty choice for professionals who want to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor or precious time. Curious to try? Let’s dive into the recipe together!
Ingredients for Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Creating the delightful spinach ricotta pasta paired with zesty lemon butter chicken is simpler than you might think! Here’s a list of the ingredients you'll need to whip up this delicious dish, celebrating fresh flavors and creamy textures.
For the Lemon Butter Chicken
- ▢1 tablespoon olive oil
- ▢2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- ▢Salt and pepper to taste
- ▢1 tablespoon butter
- ▢1 clove sliced garlic
- ▢1 lemon, freshly squeezed
For the Spinach Ricotta Pasta
- ▢450 g /1lb of your favorite pasta (linguine works great)
- ▢1 tablespoon butter
- ▢2 cloves garlic, minced
- ▢1 lemon, zest and juice
- ▢250g/1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
- ▢125ml/1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- ▢100g/2 cups fresh spinach
- ▢1 tablespoon fresh chopped mint, or 1 teaspoon dried mint
- ▢2 tablespoon fresh chopped basil, or 2 teaspoon dried basil
- ▢Salt to taste
- ▢2 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Ready your kitchen and dive into these fresh ingredients—each one essential for bringing this vibrant dish to life! Remember to check out our tips on selecting the best ricotta cheese for an extra creamy finish. Happy cooking!
Preparing Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Cooking up a delightful meal like spinach ricotta pasta with lemon butter chicken is easier than you might think. Just follow these straightforward steps and you'll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by seasoning two skinless, boneless chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, sear the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they're golden brown.
Lower the heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter and sliced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, and then squeeze in the juice of one lemon. Toss in a few lemon slices for added flavor. Cover the pan and allow the chicken to cook for an additional 10 minutes on low heat, turning occasionally and basting with the juices. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 450 g of your preferred pasta, like linguine, according to package directions for a perfect al dente texture. Remember, the ideal pasta retains a slight chewiness, so test it a couple of minutes before the package recommends.
Step 3: Make the lemon butter sauce
As the pasta cooks, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan over low heat and add a couple of minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in the zest and juice of one lemon. Mix in 250 g of ricotta cheese along with half a cup of the reserved pasta water (always save some!) to create a creamy sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the spinach ricotta sauce
Next, fold in 100 g of fresh spinach, along with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped mint and 2 tablespoons of chopped basil. Cover the pan and let the greens wilt for about 2 minutes. Once wilted, remove the lid and give everything a good stir. Add salt to taste, enhancing those beautiful flavors.
Step 5: Combine everything
Drain the pasta and immediately add it to the pan with your luscious spinach ricotta sauce. Toss gently to ensure every strand is coated. Finally, slice the lemon butter chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese completes this divine dish. Serve it up hot, and enjoy the burst of flavors!
As you can see, making spinach ricotta pasta with lemon butter chicken is a delightful way to bring a little culinary magic to your weeknight dinners. Happy cooking!
Variations on Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Swap in Different Pasta Shapes
Don't feel locked into linguine—this spinach ricotta pasta dish is wonderfully versatile! Try swapping in penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat varieties for a different texture and a nutritional boost. Shorter shapes hold the creamy sauce well, giving each bite a delightful experience. Remember, the key is choosing a fresh pasta to maintain that luscious, creamy sauce quality.
Try Adding Other Veggies
Get creative by incorporating seasonal veggies into your meal. Think zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. Sauté them alongside the garlic for extra flavor and color. If you're feeling adventurous, why not throw in some roasted asparagus or sautéed mushrooms? These additions not only enhance the spinach ricotta pasta but also provide additional nutrients, making your dish even more satisfying.
For ideas on veggie swaps and combinations, you might enjoy visiting EatingWell or Food Network. Happy cooking!
Cooking Notes for Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Key Tips for a Creamy Sauce
To achieve a beautifully creamy sauce, ensure you cook the ricotta over low heat. This prevents curdling and helps maintain its luscious texture. Reserve some pasta water; the starchy liquid will enable you to adjust the creaminess to your liking. Fresh ricotta adds a delightful richness, making your spinach ricotta pasta unforgettable.
How to Prevent Overcooked Pasta
Cooking pasta is an art! Follow the package instructions but set a timer for a couple of minutes less to keep it al dente. Test it before draining; it should have a slight bite. Remember, it will continue to cook after you toss it with the sauce, so keep it firm for the best results!
Serving suggestions for Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Perfect sides to complement the dish
To elevate your Spinach Ricotta Pasta, consider serving it with some vibrant side dishes that balance the flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, crispy and buttery garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring a nice crunch and freshness.
- Simple Salad: A light side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette can enhance the dish's brightness.
Beverage pairings without the booze
When it comes to drinks, you don't always need alcohol to impress! Try these refreshing options:
- Sparkling Water with Lemon and Mint: It’s simple, yet the flavors echo the dish while adding a refreshing fizz.
- Herb-Infused Iced Tea: Brew some herbal tea and serve it chilled with a sprig of mint for a delightful twist.
- Lemonade or Citrus Mocktails: These beverages will bring a playful citrusy zest that pairs delightfully with the lemon butter chicken.
By adding these sides and drinks, you create a well-rounded dining experience that perfectly complements the fantastic flavors of your Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken.
Time Breakdown for Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Preparation time
Prepare your ingredients and get everything ready in about 15 minutes. This includes chopping garlic, zesting and juicing the lemons, and seasoning the chicken.
Cooking time
Cooking will take approximately 25 minutes. This covers the time needed to sear the chicken and boil the pasta while making that delicious spinach ricotta sauce.
Total time
In total, you're looking at roughly 40 minutes from start to finish. A quick, easy, and scrumptious meal that fits perfectly into a busy day!
For more tips on perfecting your spinach ricotta pasta or exploring additional variations, check out this handy guide on pasta.
Nutritional Facts for Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
If you're curious about the nutritional profile of this delicious spinach ricotta pasta with lemon butter chicken, here’s a quick overview:
Calories
Each serving packs around 766 calories, making it a satisfying dish that's perfect for dinner.
Protein
You'll get a hefty 48 grams of protein, thanks to the chicken and ricotta, which will help keep you feeling full and energized.
Sodium
With approximately 324 mg of sodium, this meal is relatively low in salt, especially if you adjust seasoning as needed.
For those counting macros or looking for a balanced meal, this pasta dish strikes a perfect harmony between flavor and nutritional benefits!
FAQs about Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach is a fine substitute for your spinach ricotta pasta. Just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the sauce. This will help maintain the dish's creamy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy your pasta again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this spinach ricotta pasta recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can cook a larger batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to keep the chicken and pasta separate until you're ready to eat to maintain the best texture.
Conclusion on Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
In summary, spinach ricotta pasta paired with luscious lemon butter chicken offers a delightful blend of flavors that is sure to impress. This comforting dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy every bite and savor the freshness!
Spinach Ricotta Pasta with Lemon Butter Chicken
Equipment
- frying pan
- large pot
Ingredients
For the lemon butter chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts skinless and boneless
- salt
- pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 clove sliced garlic
For the spinach ricotta pasta
- 450 g pasta such as linguine
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 250 g ricotta cheese
- 125 ml reserved pasta water ½ cup
- 100 g fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped mint or 1 teaspoon dried mint
- 2 tablespoon fresh chopped basil or 2 teaspoon dried basil
- salt
- 2 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
For the lemon butter chicken
- Season 2 chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Preheat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan and sear the chicken breasts on each side until golden.
- Lower the heat, then add butter, sliced garlic and let it cook for 30 seconds, then add lemon juice to the pan together with a few lemon slices and stir to combine.
- Cover the pan and let the chicken breasts cook on low heat, turning them over once and basting them with the juices a couple of times for approximately 10 minutes until no longer pink inside.
- Remove to a separate plate and keep warm till needed.
For the spinach ricotta pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted water.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large pan, add sliced garlic and cook for 30 seconds on low heat, then add lemon zest and lemon juice, ricotta cheese and ½ cup of pasta water.
- Mix everything until the ricotta is well incorporated.
- Add fresh spinach, chopped mint and basil, cover with a lid and let the greens wilt for 2 minutes.
- Take the lid off and stir everything to combine, add salt to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add directly to the pan with spinach ricotta sauce, toss to combine.
- Slice the lemon butter chicken and place on top of pasta. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
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