Description

This Spinach Ricotta Pasta is a quick, creamy, and comforting dinner option featuring smooth plant-based ricotta and fresh vibrant spinach, creating a luscious sauce that perfectly coats your favorite pasta. With simple ingredients and effortless steps, this nourishing dish is ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a warm, hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)

Ricotta Sauce

1 cup plant-based ricotta (cream of the dish)
1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Flavorings

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Cook Your Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
Sauté Garlic and Spinach: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and sauté until wilted but still vibrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Prepare the Ricotta Sauce: In a bowl, combine plant-based ricotta with the natural gelling agent, stirring until creamy. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), salt, and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Pour in the ricotta mixture and gently toss to combine. Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired sauce consistency.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove skillet from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use fresh spinach for vibrant color and quick wilting.
Reserve pasta water; its starch helps bind the sauce perfectly.
Add pasta water gradually to avoid a watery sauce and get creamy texture.
Season gradually and taste as you go for balanced flavor.
Serve this dish hot to enjoy its creamy texture and warmth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Spinach Ricotta Pasta, plant-based ricotta, vegan pasta, creamy spinach pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce