There’s something about a bowl of Tomato Ricotta Pasta that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked pasta, the rich tomato sauce clinging lovingly to every strand, while creamy ricotta adds a luxurious texture that makes each bite an experience. perfect tomato soup pairing The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and promising an explosion of flavor in every mouthful.
This dish is not just food; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create magic. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a dinner party, Tomato Ricotta Pasta brings joy and satisfaction to any occasion. creative toppings for toast Get ready for flavors that dance on your taste buds!
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Tomato Ricotta Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of fresh tomatoes and creamy ricotta creates a flavor explosion that’s visually stunning. You can customize this dish with seasonal veggies or proteins, so it’s versatile for any meal plan. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser – even picky eaters will ask for seconds! [/info_box]
I still remember the first time I made Tomato Ricotta Pasta for my friends; they practically licked their plates clean and insisted I open a restaurant. hearty cornbread dressing.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Choose your favorite type, but I recommend using spaghetti or penne for the best sauce absorption.
Fresh Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor; heirlooms are my top pick if they’re in season.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole-milk ricotta for creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tangy tomatoes.
Garlic: Fresh cloves add depth; avoid pre-minced versions unless you enjoy sacrificing flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of the sauce; drizzle generously!
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brightens the dish; add them whole or roughly chopped just before serving.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a salty kick; save some for garnishing!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. comforting white chicken chili.
Let’s Make it Together
Cooking Tomato Ricotta Pasta is as rewarding as it is simple – let’s dive right in!
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping your fresh tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic cloves until fragrant and set everything aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
Add Tomatoes**: Toss in chopped tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Cook until soft and juicy, about 5-7 minutes. The kitchen should smell heavenly by now! For more inspiration, check out this Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Chicken recipe.
Create the Sauce**: Reduce heat to low and stir in ricotta cheese until melted into the tomato mixture. If it’s too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake recipe.
Toss the Pasta**: Add your drained pasta into the skillet with sauce. Gently toss everything together until well coated—this is where magic happens!
Now you’re ready to serve! Garnish with fresh basil leaves and freshly grated parmesan before digging in!
Tomato Ricotta Pasta isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter, love, and fantastic flavors that’ll keep everyone coming back for more!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners. The creamy ricotta beautifully balances the acidity of ripe tomatoes, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests with minimal effort! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta until it’s al dente. While the pasta cooks, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add fresh tomatoes to create a vibrant sauce that bursts with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in other cheeses like feta or goat cheese. You can also toss in some spinach or roasted vegetables for added depth and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Tomato Ricotta Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water for best results.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Make sure your pasta is perfectly al dente; it should have a slight bite to it. Fresh basil adds more than just flavor; it brightens the whole dish visually and aromatic-wise. Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer sauce that elevates the dish altogether. [/info_box]
Cooking this dish always reminds me of my college days when I wanted to impress my friends but didn’t have much experience. I made this recipe, and they loved it!
FAQ
Can I use frozen tomatoes for this Tomato Ricotta Pasta?
Yes, you can use frozen tomatoes, but fresh ones yield better flavor and texture.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any pasta shape works well, but penne or spaghetti are particularly great choices.
Can I make this Tomato Ricotta Pasta vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute ricotta with cashew or tofu-based alternatives for a delicious vegan version.
Tomato Ricotta Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the warmth of Tomato Ricotta Pasta, where perfectly cooked pasta meets a rich tomato sauce and creamy ricotta. This dish is an effortless fusion of flavors that will envelop your senses and elevate any meal, whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With its vibrant ingredients and comforting texture, each bite promises satisfaction and joy.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by washing and dicing the fresh tomatoes and mincing the garlic.
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions; reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and juicy.
- Reduce heat, stir in ricotta cheese, adding reserved pasta water gradually for desired consistency.
- Toss drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce until well coated.
- Serve garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
