Green Noodles With Ricotta
Creamy green noodles with ricotta and Parmesan offer a rich, flavorful vegetarian meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, highlighting fresh herbs and smooth textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- To make the sauce, combine melted butter, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Cook the spinach noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
- Pour the ricotta sauce over the noodles and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using part-skim ricotta instead of skim. Fresh spinach can be used instead of spinach noodles; just sauté it lightly before mixing with the sauce. If you want a bit of crunch, try adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts. This dish pairs beautifully with Cheesy Italian Potatoes for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a delightful twist, consider serving alongside Quick Vegetable Manicotti for a satisfying vegetarian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the noodles from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Noodles With Ricotta contains roughly 1131 calories, with 1g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spinach noodles?
Yes, you can substitute any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type, ensuring it's cooked al dente before adding the ricotta sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ricotta sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the noodles just before serving and combine them with the sauce. This makes for a quick and easy meal when you're short on time.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish for up to two months. However, the texture of the ricotta may change upon thawing. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).