Description
This Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a delectable blend of caramelized cherry tomatoes and creamy ricotta cheese, infused with roasted garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make dish offers a light yet rich flavor profile that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne)
2 pints cherry tomatoes
1 whole garlic bulb
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast Tomatoes and Garlic: Spread cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Slice the top off the garlic bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and place on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tomatoes burst and garlic is soft.
- Cook Pasta: While roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare Sauce: Squeeze roasted garlic cloves from their skins and mash. In a bowl, mix mashed garlic with ricotta and Parmesan cheese, adding reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
- Combine: Toss cooked pasta in the ricotta sauce, then gently fold in roasted tomatoes. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.
Notes
For a spicier kick, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of crushed red pepper.
Customize by adding vegetables or proteins like spinach or grilled chicken.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Roasting, Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal