Original Recipe: Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto
Ingredients:
- Pasta:
- 12 oz dried pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or bucatini recommended)
- Substitute: Gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Crispy Prosciutto:
- 4 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
- Substitute: Bacon (cook until crispy) or pancetta for a similar salty crunch.
- Lemon Ricotta Sauce:
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Substitute: For a dairy-free version, use vegan ricotta and vegan Parmesan cheese alternatives.
- Fresh Herbs:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Substitute: 1 tablespoon dried basil or other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Things to Avoid:
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Skipping the reserved pasta water: It helps create a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Overcrowding the pan when crisping the prosciutto: Cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
- Adding the lemon juice too early: It can curdle the ricotta cheese. Add it off the heat.
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Crisp the prosciutto: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the prosciutto slices and cook until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Make the lemon ricotta sauce: While the pasta is cooking, whisk together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, olive oil, reserved pasta water, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the lemon ricotta sauce and toss to coat evenly. Gently fold in the chopped fresh basil.
- Serve: Divide the pasta between serving plates. Top with the crispy prosciutto pieces and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Difficulty Level: Easy Serves: 4
Serving Suggestions:
- Add a handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach for a peppery bite.
- Top with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Enjoy this light and flavorful pasta dish!
