Step 1

Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve at least 1/2 cup of the pasta water just before the pasta is done, then drain and return pasta to the pot (or if your sauce is done, use tongs to move the pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce). Cover to keep warm while you're making the sauce.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, heat some olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic, cooking until the shallot is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Step 3

Add the spinach - it will seem like a lot of spinach, but it will cook down. Stir until the spinach has wilted and cooked down completely, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4

Turn the heat to medium low and add the ricotta, reserved pasta water, lemon juice and zest, salt and pepper. Stir continuously until the ricotta breaks down and transforms into a creamy sauce. Taste and add additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5

Add the pasta to the skillet and, using two large spoons or tongs, toss the pasta with the sauce repeatedly until the sauce fully coats the pasta. Top with grated parmesan cheese, additional cracked pepper or red pepper flakes if desired, and serve!