One Pot Penne with Spinach, Ricotta, and Pine Nuts - Martha Stewart

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Cottage cheese is lower in calories and provides similar creaminess.

pine nuts

🥗Healthier: sunflower seeds

💰Cheaper: walnuts

Sunflower seeds are lower in fat and walnuts are more affordable.

Boil water in a large pot and add salt.

Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in ricotta cheese and mix until combined with the spinach.

Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.

Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to taste.

Toast pine nuts in a separate dry skillet over medium heat until golden, about 3-4 minutes.

Add toasted pine nuts to the pasta mixture and toss gently.

Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Serve warm, garnished with grated parmesan cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens