Pasta with Arugula

Bright, fresh, and bursting with vibrant flavors, Pasta with Arugula is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together peppery greens, creamy cheeses, and zesty lemon notes into a harmonious plate. This recipe features an 8 oz. box of Fiber Gourmet Light Penne, perfectly al dente and light, making it an ideal base for the ricotta and Parmesan cheese mixture. With baby arugula and fresh basil adding a peppery and herbal crunch, this pasta dish is ready in no time and is a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Let’s dive into why Pasta with Arugula deserves a special place in your recipe rotation.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Pasta with Arugula strikes an amazing balance between comfort and freshness. Unlike heavy cream-based pasta dishes, this recipe feels light yet satisfying thanks to the ricotta cheese’s creamy texture without overpowering richness. The lemon zest and juice provide a bright contrast that wakes up your palate, while the fresh herbs lend complexity and depth. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy fresh greens in a pasta dish that’s both approachable and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or make a quick and nourishing meal, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement many dietary preferences and can be served warm or at room temperature.

Ingredient Notes

• Fiber Gourmet Light Penne: This pasta is a great choice for its light texture and added fiber content, which makes the dish more filling and nutritious without heaviness.
• Ricotta Cheese: Look for fresh, whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture and mild flavor. It blends beautifully with the lemon and herbs.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers sharp, nutty notes that enhance the overall flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese for best results.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil for drizzling and mixing. It adds richness and a fruity undertone.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon zest and juice are key to brightening the dish. Adjust according to taste, adding more for extra zing.
• Salt and Fresh Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, they balance and elevate all flavors.
• Baby Arugula: Its peppery bite contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese and lemon. Coarsely chopping ensures texture in every bite.
• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil infuses the dish with a sweet, aromatic herbaceousness that complements arugula perfectly.

Equipment & Tools

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta to a perfect al dente texture.
• Colander: To drain the pasta efficiently without losing any bits.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the cheeses, lemon, and olive oil before tossing with pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For mixing the pasta and sauce gently without breaking the noodles.
• Microplane or fine grater: To zest the lemon finely for maximum flavor release.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping the arugula and basil.

Pasta with Arugula: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to season the water. Add the 8 oz. box of Fiber Gourmet Light Penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

While the pasta cooks, in a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well until creamy and smooth.

Step 3: Chop the Greens

Coarsely chop 5 oz. of baby arugula and 2 cups of fresh basil leaves. The basil should be fresh and vibrant for the best flavor impact.

Step 4: Drain and Combine

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a half cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta in a colander. Immediately transfer the hot pasta to the bowl with the cheese mixture. Add the remaining tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help it coat the noodles evenly.

Step 5: Add the Greens

Fold in the chopped baby arugula and fresh basil, combining everything thoroughly but gently. The residual heat will slightly wilt the greens, preserving their bright color and fresh flavor.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste your Pasta with Arugula and add more lemon juice, zest, salt, or pepper as desired to brighten or enhance flavors. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.

Make It Fit Your Plan

• For a lighter meal, reduce the cheese quantities slightly or use part-skim ricotta.
• Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch and healthy fats.
• For a heartier dish, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish, or toss in sautéed mushrooms. You might also enjoy the One Pan Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta With Mushrooms for a similarly fresh but richer pasta experience.
• Swap the penne for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
• Consider mixing in peas or other spring vegetables to add sweetness and color reminiscent of Pasta With Peas.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• The balance of lemon zest and juice is crucial — too little and the dish feels flat; too much and it can overpower the delicate cheese flavors.
• Using fresh herbs is a game changer. Dried basil does not provide the same aromatic punch.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; the slight firmness gives the dish a satisfying bite and holds the sauce better.
• Mixing the pasta while it’s hot helps the cheese melt slightly, creating a luscious coating without the need for heavy cream.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can chop the herbs and prepare the cheese mixture up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture, but if you need to store leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. The fresh herbs can be stirred in just before serving to revive their flavor and color.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Fiber Gourmet Light Penne works beautifully here, other shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni will also hold the sauce well and complement the arugula and cheese mixture.

Is it necessary to use both lemon zest and juice?

Both lemon zest and juice add different layers of flavor. The zest provides aromatic oils and brightness without acidity, while the juice adds fresh acidity that balances the richness of the cheeses. Using both ensures a well-rounded lemon flavor.

Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

For a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute ricotta with a plant-based ricotta alternative or blended tofu, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The fresh herbs and lemon will still shine beautifully.

What’s the best way to keep the arugula fresh and vibrant in the dish?

Adding the arugula just before serving or at the very end of tossing helps keep its peppery flavor and bright green color intact. Avoid cooking the arugula too long to prevent it from wilting excessively.

Explore More

• Pasta With Peas – a spring-inspired pasta bursting with sweet peas and fresh herbs.
• One Pan Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta With Mushrooms – a rich, comforting pasta with a fragrant tomato-basil sauce and earthy mushrooms.

Bring It Home

Pasta with Arugula is a brilliant way to elevate your pasta game by combining simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish bursting with fresh flavors and satisfying textures. The creamy cheese, peppery greens, and bright lemon come together in perfect harmony, making it a versatile recipe you will return to again and again. Whether you’re craving something light or looking for a crowd-pleasing side to complement your main course, this pasta fits effortlessly into your meal plans. Make a batch tonight and savor the effortless elegance of fresh ingredients at their finest.

Share on Pinterest