Description
Delight in the comforting flavors of Tomato Ricotta Pasta, a perfect blend of tomatoes and creamy ricotta. Ideal for quick dinners or special gatherings.
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. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes, add herbs and red pepper flakes (if using), stir, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the ricotta: Reduce heat to low, fold in ricotta cheese, and cook for 2-3 minutes, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Toss drained pasta in the sauce, mixing well, then add grated Parmesan.
- Taste and adjust: Season with salt, pepper, and drizzle balsamic vinegar if desired.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
For best results, reserve pasta water for sauce consistency and use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor. Let the dish rest a couple of minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg