Irresistible Tomato and Ricotta Pasta Recipe to Savor

Tomato and Ricotta Pasta is like a warm hug for your taste buds, bursting with vibrant flavors and creamy goodness that will make you swoon. Imagine twirling forkfuls of perfectly al dente pasta coated in a luscious tomato sauce, with dollops of ricotta that melt into every bite, creating a symphony of textures. It’s the kind of dish that pulls you back to childhood kitchen memories, where the air was filled with the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil and laughter echoed off the walls.

This delightful dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends. Picture this: you’re hosting a casual dinner party, and just as guests arrive, the scent of Tomato and Ricotta Pasta wafts through the air, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Anticipation builds as they dive in, and their eyes light up after the first bite. Trust me; it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Nothing beats the joy on my friend’s face when I served this dish at our last game night; it was pure bliss!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use your favorite type; I prefer rigatoni for its perfect sauce-holding capabilities.

• Fresh Tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes are non-negotiable; they add brightness and flavor to the sauce.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves work best here; they infuse the dish with irresistible aroma.

• Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it melts beautifully into the pasta.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds depth; use it generously for sautéing.

• Basil: Fresh basil elevates flavors; chop some finely for garnish.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings a salty finish; sprinkle generously before serving.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning; adjust to taste throughout cooking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

Begin by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Once boiling, generously salt it before adding your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions while stirring occasionally.

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about one minute should do it! The smell will be heavenly.

Next, toss in diced fresh tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Stir gently as they soften and release their juices—this should take about five minutes or until they look saucy and inviting.

Once the tomatoes are softened, reduce heat to low, then add in ricotta cheese. Stir well until combined fully into your tomato mixture—this creates a creamy texture that coats every piece of pasta beautifully.

Drain your cooked pasta and add it directly into the skillet with tomato-ricotta sauce. Mix gently until all pasta is coated evenly. Taste-test now—add more seasoning if necessary!

Finish with fresh basil sprinkled over the top followed by grated parmesan cheese before serving immediately. Enjoy each spoonful of this comforting Tomato and Ricotta Pasta!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add fresh tomatoes. As they soften, cook the pasta until al dente. Combine everything and stir in ricotta for creaminess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out tomatoes for sun-dried ones or toss in some spinach for added nutrition. A sprinkle of chili flakes can give it a spicy twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed.

Sometimes, I whip up Tomato and Ricotta Pasta when friends drop by unexpectedly, and it never fails to impress!

FAQ

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned tomatoes can work wonderfully in this recipe, especially if they’re high-quality.

Is there a vegan alternative to ricotta?

Yes! You can use cashew cream or tofu blended with nutritional yeast as a vegan substitute.

How do I make this pasta dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or toss in some diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Tomato and Ricotta Pasta is a comforting dish that combines al dente pasta with a rich tomato sauce and creamy ricotta, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe promises to impress everyone at your table. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time, making it perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Lower the heat, stir in ricotta cheese until fully combined.
5. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet; mix well to coat.
6. Garnish with fresh basil and parmesan before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 40mg