Tomato Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the rich creaminess of ricotta cheese with the tangy brightness of fresh tomatoes. This comforting meal is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a dish to impress your guests at a dinner party. The contrast of the creamy ricotta with the juicy tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors, and the pasta serves as a comforting base for these ingredients.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile and customizable. With just a few key ingredients, you can have a delicious and hearty meal ready in no time. The best part? It’s a one-pan dish that allows you to enjoy a flavorful pasta meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. This Tomato Ricotta Pasta is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household, offering a taste of fresh, homemade comfort food.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making this savory and creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta from start to finish. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, we’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love Tomato Ricotta Pasta

Creamy and Comforting

The creamy ricotta cheese is the star of this dish, adding a rich, smooth texture that perfectly complements the tangy tomatoes. It’s the kind of comforting pasta dish that’s both satisfying and light, making it ideal for any meal.

Fresh and Flavorful

This recipe uses fresh ingredients, particularly ripe tomatoes that burst with flavor when sautéed. The addition of garlic, fresh basil, and a splash of olive oil elevates the dish with aromatic flavors, making each bite irresistible.

Quick and Easy

Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a quick and easy dish to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Customizable

While the recipe is delicious as written, it’s also very adaptable to your personal preferences. You can use different types of pasta, add in extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even include protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for added variety. This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Gifting and Sharing

While pasta dishes are typically enjoyed at the dinner table, Tomato Ricotta Pasta can also be a great dish for sharing or bringing to a potluck. Its bright flavors and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories per serving, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 12-15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

• Pasta: 12 ounces (340g) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or rigatoni all work well)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Tomatoes: 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes)
• Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• Fresh Basil: ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Pine Nuts or Walnuts (Optional): ¼ cup for added crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be used later to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can keep the pot on the stove and reuse it for the sauce, which will save you from doing extra dishes!

2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it.

Next, add the diced fresh tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes if using) to the pan. Stir well, and let the tomatoes cook down for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften and release their juices. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use a spoon or potato masher to mash the tomatoes slightly as they cook.

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes at this point. The tomatoes should become tender and juicy, and the sauce will begin to thicken as it cooks. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

3. Combine the Ricotta Cheese and Pasta

Once the tomato sauce is ready, stir in the ricotta cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy and luscious texture. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta and makes it silkier.

At this point, add the cooked pasta to the pan with the tomato ricotta sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy, tangy sauce. You can adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.

4. Finish and Serve

Once the pasta is thoroughly mixed with the sauce, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the fresh chopped basil for an aromatic, fresh finish. The basil adds a pop of green color and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

If desired, sprinkle the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor. For some extra texture and crunch, top with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts. These add a lovely contrast to the creamy ricotta and give the dish an extra layer of flavor.

Serve the Tomato Ricotta Pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves if desired. It’s best enjoyed warm, straight from the skillet!

Tips for Perfect Tomato Ricotta Pasta

Use Fresh Tomatoes for a Fresher Flavor

While canned tomatoes are a great option when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, using fresh, ripe tomatoes will give this dish a much brighter and more vibrant flavor. Look for tomatoes that are juicy and in-season for the best results.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid a mushy texture when mixed with the sauce. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly when it’s added to the sauce, so it’s better to undercook it slightly.

Customize the Sauce

Feel free to adjust the flavor profile of the tomato sauce. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, or use different herbs like oregano or thyme in place of basil. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and depth.

Make it Creamier with More Ricotta

If you love creamy pasta, feel free to add a little more ricotta cheese to the sauce for an even richer texture. You can also use half ricotta and half mascarpone for a luxurious sauce.

Add Extra Protein or Vegetables

If you’d like to make this dish a more hearty meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage. You can also toss in some vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Reserve Pasta Water

Always reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy liquid is an excellent addition to the sauce if it becomes too thick. It helps to bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a silkier, more cohesive dish.

Variations of Tomato Ricotta Pasta

Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the sauce for a boost of nutrients and flavor. You can sauté the spinach with the garlic before adding the tomatoes, or simply toss fresh spinach into the pan with the sauce and let it wilt.

Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Chicken

For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken to the pasta. This will add protein and make the dish even more satisfying.

Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Pesto

For a burst of fresh herb flavor, drizzle some pesto over the top of the Tomato Ricotta Pasta. The combination of ricotta, basil, and pesto will take this dish to the next level.

Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Mushrooms

For an earthy, savory twist, add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce. Mushrooms complement the creamy ricotta and tomatoes beautifully, adding both flavor and texture to the dish.

Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Vegetables

Roast your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, and add them to the pasta for added depth and flavor. The caramelization from roasting adds a lovely contrast to the creamy ricotta.

Storage and Shelf Life

Tomato Ricotta Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the

refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or heat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to loosen the sauce if necessary.

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, this dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, place the pasta in an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove.

Side Dishes That Pair Well with Tomato Ricotta Pasta

• Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs perfectly with any pasta dish. The crunchy, buttery texture of garlic bread complements the creamy pasta.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, balsamic vinaigrette, and a few cherry tomatoes is a refreshing side to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, add color and flavor to your meal.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.

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Conclusion

Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its rich, creamy sauce and fresh, tangy tomatoes create a harmonious balance of flavors, making it a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a casual meal with friends, this pasta dish is a perfect choice.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying Tomato Ricotta Pasta in no time. With its customizable nature, you can add your own spin to the recipe, making it your own. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking—you’re about to enjoy a wonderful meal!