Description
A delightful pasta dish combining creamy ricotta cheese with bold flavors of tomatoes and herbs for a satisfying meal.
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. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- 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 it gets too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water for a smoother consistency.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.
- Taste and adjust: Season to taste with salt and pepper. For an extra flavor kick, drizzle a little balsamic vinegar before serving.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For an extra flavor kick, you can drizzle some excellent quality olive oil over the finished dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg