If you’re in search of a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s quick to prepare, look no further than Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta! This delectable recipe features al dente pasta enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce made from ripe tomatoes and rich ricotta cheese. It’s an Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy meal at home.
Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a velvety sauce that balances the sweetness of tomatoes with the creaminess of ricotta. The addition of garlic and fresh herbs elevates this dish, making it not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for an easy vegetarian option, Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of ricotta and tomatoes creates a luxurious sauce.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious option for meatless meals, packed with flavor.
- Customizable: Easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
Ingredients List
To create your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh roasted tomatoes)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or fresh basil and oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Mix in Ricotta: Reduce the heat to low and add the ricotta cheese to the skillet, stirring until well combined and creamy.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Toss Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy tomato ricotta sauce.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat in your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftovers of your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Use about 2 cups of fresh roasted tomatoes for a vibrant flavor in your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, fusilli, or any short pasta shape works wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute ricotta with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan version.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Experiment with fresh herbs like basil and parsley or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
Conclusion
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, combining the delicious tastes of creamy ricotta and fresh tomatoes in a delightful pasta dish that everyone will love. With its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
We’d love to hear how your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta turns out! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know if you tried any variations. For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit https://eldralys.com/ and keep exploring the joys of cooking! Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite of your Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta!
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Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta: A Luxuriously Simple Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring creamy ricotta, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs—perfect for a cozy meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh roasted tomatoes)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or fresh basil and oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes with juices. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in ricotta cheese until creamy. Add Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs. Thin sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and more Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition. For a protein boost, mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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