Ingredients
For the Spinach and Ricotta Sauce:
1/2 pound pasta (I used orecchiette)
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (reserve some for serving)
3 2 garlic cloves, minced or finely chopped
3 tablespoons dry white wine
3 cups spinach
2 teaspoons black pepper
Kosher salt, to taste
2 tablespoons avocado oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 sage leaves
1 cup whole milk ricotta
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup pasta water
For the Breadcrumbs:
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons EVOO or unsalted butter
For Serving:
EVOO (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Parmesan cheese for garnish
Freshly chopped parsley
Toasted breadcrumbs
Directions
Step 1
Prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Sauce:
Step 1
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a pan over medium heat.
Step 2
Add the sage leaves and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3
Add the spinach to the pan along with 1/4 cup water.
Step 4
Cook until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
Step 5
Cook the Pasta:
Step 1
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 2
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 3
Blend the Sauce:
Step 1
In a blender, combine the cooked spinach mixture, ricotta, fresh basil leaves, lemon zest, and salt.
Step 2
Add a bit of pasta water if needed to reach a smooth consistency. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3
Finish the Sauce:
Step 1
In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
Step 2
Add the white wine and cook until slightly reduced, about 2 minutes.
Step 3
Add the spinach-ricotta mixture to the pan and mix well.
Step 4
Add the cooked pasta to the pan, along with parmesan cheese and some of the reserved pasta water (If needed, add gradually).
Step 5
Cook on low heat, gradually adding more pasta water as needed, until the pasta is fully cooked and coated with the sauce.
Step 6
Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
Step 1
In a warm pan, add the breadcrumbs and toast lightly over medium heat.
Step 2
Add 2 tablespoons of EVOO or unsalted butter and mix well until the breadcrumbs are well toasted and golden brown.
Step 3
Serve:
Step 1
Place the pasta in a pasta bowl.
Step 2
Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and some chopped parsley.
Step 3
Drizzle with a bit of EVOO and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
Step 4
Serve immediately and enjoy!
