Creamy Lemon Ricotta Rice

Name: Creamy Lemon Ricotta Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup arborio rice; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love experimenting with different flavors in my cooking, and this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Rice has become a favorite. The balance of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon is simply irresistible, and it makes for a delightful side dish or even a light main course. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-19T21:21:34.907Z

When I first made this dish, I was genuinely surprised by how much flavor emerged from just a few basic ingredients. The combination of creamy ricotta and the brightness of lemon creates a comforting yet refreshing experience on your palate. I recommend using freshly grated lemon zest for a punch of flavor, which really elevates the dish.

After perfecting the recipe, I noticed that adding a touch of olive oil at the end not only enhanced the creaminess but also gave the rice a lovely shine. It’s a simple trick that takes the dish to the next level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta adds a luxurious texture.
Zesty lemon brightens up each bite.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.

      

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star of this dish, as it is a short-grain rice that has a high starch content. This characteristic is crucial for achieving that creamy texture we all love in risottos and similar dishes. When cooked, arborio rice releases its starch, resulting in a rich, luscious consistency that perfectly complements the ricotta. If you don't have arborio rice, you can use other risotto varieties like Carnaroli, but avoid long-grain rice as it won’t yield the same creaminess.

Cooking arborio rice requires a gentle approach. Start by toasting it in the pot for a couple of minutes before adding the broth, which enhances its nutty flavor. It's important to stir occasionally while cooking. This helps release more starch, making your dish even creamier. Aim for a texture that's al dente—tender yet with a slight bite—this prevents the rice from becoming mushy.

Zesty Lemon's Role

The brightness of fresh lemon juice and zest is what elevates the flavor profile of this dish. The lemon zest contains essential oils that provide a punch of citrus aroma, while the juice adds a balancing acidity. This duality enhances the creaminess of the ricotta and cuts through its richness. I recommend using a microplane grater for zesting to get the most flavor without the bitter pith. Always taste as you go, adjusting the lemon to your personal preference.

If you want to experiment, consider infusing additional flavors by incorporating lemon thyme or basil along with the parsley garnish. This interplay of herbs and citrus can add depth to the dish. For a twist, try substituting lime or orange juice for a unique citrus twist—just remember to adjust the quantity according to your taste!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother preparation.

Ingredients

1 cup arborio rice
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure your ricotta is at room temperature for easy mixing.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to cook your creamy lemon ricotta rice.

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the arborio rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.

Mix in the Ricotta and Lemon

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

Season and Serve

Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and mix again. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your creamy lemon ricotta rice as a side dish or a light main course!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing some garlic before adding the rice to the vegetable broth.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The creamy texture might thicken as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore creaminess. Warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring gently to avoid sticking, until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can heat unevenly and turn the rice gummy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the rice mixture. To do so, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. Press out as much air as possible before sealing, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then follow the stovetop reheating instructions for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Lemon Ricotta Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp work wonderfully, complementing the dish's tangy notes. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette for a vibrant meal. If you’re serving it as a main dish, consider adding steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added nutrition and color.

For a more indulgent touch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or slivers of fried sage on top before serving. Not only do they add a delightful crunch, but they also introduce different flavor elements that elevate the overall dish. Feel free to get creative with toppings; shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta can be delightful additions that enhance the dish's richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of rice?

While arborio rice is preferred for its creaminess, you can use other short-grain rice, but the texture may vary.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute ricotta with a vegan cream cheese or tofu blended with lemon juice for a dairy-free option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted vegetables can enhance both flavor and nutrition.