Description
A delightful fusion of creamy ricotta and vibrant tomato flavors that creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the ricotta: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and heated through. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until everything is well mixed.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the pasta and sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For a vegan option, replace ricotta with cashew cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg