Yield: 2 servings
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Estimated Calories: ~720 per serving
Estimated Protein: ~25g per serving

Ingredients

Fresh Pasta
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
Pinch of salt
Sauce
3/4 cup whole milk ricotta
1/3 cup grated Parmesan
1 lemon
2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 to 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Fresh basil or parsley, optional

Directions

Step 1 – Make the pasta dough On a clean surface, add the flour and make a well in the center. Crack in the eggs and add a pinch of salt. Use a fork to slowly mix the eggs into the flour, then bring it together with your hands into a dough. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and slightly elastic. (don’t rush this — this is the part that makes it feel different)

Step 2 – Rest and roll Let the dough rest for 10 minutes, then roll it out thin using a rolling pin or pasta machine. Cut into spaghetti or linguine-style strands and lightly flour so it doesn’t stick.

Step 3 – Prep the lemon Wash the lemon well, zest it first, then cut and juice it. (roll it on the counter first — more juice, less effort)

Step 4 – Cook the pasta Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fresh pasta for 2–3 minutes. Reserve about 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. (fresh pasta cooks fast — don’t overdo it)

Step 5 – Make the ricotta mixture In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 6 – Cook the garlic In a skillet over medium-low heat, warm olive oil and cook garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. (do not brown it)

Step 7 – Build the sauce Add the pasta to the skillet, then add the ricotta mixture and a splash of pasta water. Toss gently, adding more water as needed until the sauce is smooth and coats the noodles. (you want silky, not clumpy)

Step 8 – Serve Plate immediately and top with herbs if using. (fresh, clean, and looks like you know what you’re doing)

Rizz Tip If they ask if you made the pasta, just say “yeah” and keep it moving. 😏