Celebrate the fresh flavors of spring with a bright and simple dish paired with a classic sparkling cocktail. This lemon ricotta pasta is creamy, light, and full of citrus flavor, making it a perfect seasonal meal when paired with a refreshing French 75. As the weather warms and spring gatherings begin, this easy pasta recipe and elegant cocktail bring together comforting ingredients with vibrant, fresh notes. Whether you're planning a casual dinner, a weekend lunch, or a seasonal recipe feature, this pairing is a delicious way to welcome the new season.

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or rigatoni)
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large pan, warm olive oil and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the drained pasta and the ricotta mixture to the pan.
5. Slowly add a little reserved pasta water and toss until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the pasta.
6. Top with extra parmesan, fresh herbs, and additional lemon zest if desired.



Classic French 75

Ingredients

• 1 oz gin
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 3 oz champagne or sparkling wine
• Lemon twist (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake well.
3. Strain into a champagne flute.
4. Top with sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.