Spring Greens & Lemon Ricotta Pasta
When the first warm days of spring arrive, everything seems to soften — the air, the colours, even the flavours. After a long winter of hearty roasts and slow-cooked meals, our bodies crave lightness and renewal. That’s why this Spring Greens & Lemon Ricotta Pasta (or dairy-free ricotta version) is one of our favourites to welcome the new season.
It’s vibrant, zesty, and full of nutrient-rich greens that come alive this time of year — think asparagus, baby spinach, and broad beans, all tossed with lemon zest and creamy ricotta for a simple but deeply satisfying meal.
This dish captures everything we love about eating seasonally — quick to make, full of flavour, and built around ingredients picked at their best.
Ingredients
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250g pasta (gluten-free or traditional)
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1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and sliced into thirds
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1 cup broad beans (fresh or frozen)
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2 cups baby spinach leaves
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1 lemon (zest and juice)
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1 cup ricotta or dairy-free ricotta alternative
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 garlic clove, finely chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh herbs like parsley or basil to garnish
Method
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Bring a pot of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta according to the packet instructions.
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In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus and broad beans to the same pot to lightly blanch them.
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Drain the pasta and vegetables, reserving about ½ cup of the cooking water.
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In a large pan, heat olive oil and garlic for 1 minute over medium heat until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until just wilted.
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Stir in the pasta, asparagus, and broad beans. Add ricotta, lemon zest, and juice, tossing gently to coat. Use a little pasta water to loosen the sauce.
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Season well and serve warm with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
Why It’s Good for You
This meal is rich in plant-based iron, folate, vitamin C, and magnesium — all nutrients that support energy and help the body transition out of winter fatigue.
The lemon aids digestion, and the greens are naturally cleansing for the liver — perfect for the spring reset your body craves.
Leave a comment below if you make this and love it!