Light, creamy, and full of fresh summer flavor, these lemon ricotta zoodles come together with Parmesan, herbs, and a squeeze of fresh lemon for an easy Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Total Time23 minutes
Yield4 servings 1x
DietVegetarian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
For the Zoodles
4 medium zucchini, spiralized
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Lemon Ricotta Sauce
1cup whole milk ricotta
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Serving
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Lemon wedges
Freshly cracked black pepper
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Optional: toasted pine nuts
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. If needed, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add the zucchini noodles and season with the salt and pepper.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, gently tossing until the zucchini is just tender but still slightly crisp. Do not overcook, as the zucchini will release excess moisture.
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Add the ricotta mixture and gently toss until the warm zucchini noodles are evenly coated.
Taste and adjust with additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper if desired.
Divide among shallow bowls.
Finish each serving with freshly grated Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, freshly cracked black pepper, toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios if using, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Serve immediately with warm crusty bread.
Notes
Lightly salt the spiralized zucchini and rest it for 15 to 20 minutes for the best texture. Pat dry before cooking.
Use whole milk ricotta and freshly grated Parmesan.
Cook the zucchini quickly so it stays tender-crisp.