If you’re looking for an easy pasta dish that bursts with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta combines juicy, sweet tomatoes and creamy ricotta for a taste that will delight your senses. This recipe is perfect for busy nights, and it uses simple ingredients you may already have. Stick around to discover how to make this delicious dish and elevate your mealtime!
Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
These main ingredients bring the dish to life. The cherry tomatoes offer sweetness when roasted. The pasta serves as the perfect base to hold the rich sauce. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess and a delightful texture.
Flavor Enhancers
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
These flavor enhancers boost the dish’s taste. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty kick. Garlic brings warmth and aroma, while Italian herbs add depth and freshness. Together, they create a well-rounded flavor.
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
The seasoning and garnish elevate the meal. Olive oil gives richness and helps roast the tomatoes. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and a fragrant touch.
For the complete experience, check out the Full Recipe. The combination of these ingredients makes roasted tomato ricotta pasta a dish you’ll want to make over and over.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Tomatoes
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the tomatoes roast well. Next, grab a baking dish. In it, combine two cups of halved cherry tomatoes with one tablespoon of olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss the tomatoes until they are well coated. Roast them in the oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. You will know they are done when they are blistered and caramelized.
Cooking the Pasta
While the tomatoes roast, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add eight ounces of pasta, like spaghetti or penne. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. When done, reserve half a cup of pasta water. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Making the Sauce
Now, let’s make the sauce. In a large sauté pan, drizzle some olive oil and add two minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for one to two minutes. You want it fragrant but not burnt. Next, mix in one cup of ricotta cheese and the roasted tomatoes, along with any juices from the baking dish. Stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese and one teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Combine everything well. If needed, add the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the pan. Toss it until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
You can find the full recipe in the earlier sections. Enjoy your cooking!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
Roasting your tomatoes can really boost their flavor. I recommend roasting them for about 20 to 25 minutes. This will bring out their natural sweetness. Use high-quality tomatoes for the best taste. Fresh cherry tomatoes work great in this dish. Also, fresh olive oil adds depth to the flavor.
Creaminess and Consistency
To make your sauce creamy, reserve some pasta water. This starchy water helps bind everything together. Start with a little and add more as needed. Mix ricotta cheese and Parmesan to adjust the sauce’s richness. The combo gives your pasta a nice, creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, serve your pasta in wide, shallow bowls. This allows the colors to shine. You can also pair this dish with a fresh salad. A simple green salad balances the flavors. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce too.
If you want to try making this dish, check out the Full Recipe for all the details!
Variations of Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Adding Protein
You can boost the protein in this dish easily. Grilled chicken adds a juicy touch. Shrimp also works well and cooks quickly. For a vegetarian option, use chickpeas. They add protein and a nice texture. Just toss them in at the end to warm up.
Vegetable Add-Ins
Seasonal veggies can enhance this pasta. Think about adding spinach or kale for color. Zucchini or bell peppers fit well too. They provide extra nutrition and flavor. You can even add some peas for a sweet crunch. Feel free to mix and match!
Alternative Cheeses
Exploring different cheeses can change the taste. Try goat cheese for a tangy twist. Feta can also add a salty bite. If you want a vegan option, use cashew cheese. It gives creaminess without dairy. You can easily find many recipes for vegan cheese online.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store your Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta in a tight container. This keeps it fresh. It lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing it up.
Freezing Tips
To freeze leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can stay good for about two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stove. Add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Freshness Check
Check for signs that your pasta is bad. If it smells off or the pasta looks dry, toss it out. You can repurpose leftovers by turning them into a pasta bake. Just layer it in a dish with more cheese and bake until bubbly.
FAQs about Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use different types of pasta. Gluten-free pasta works well in this dish. Whole wheat pasta is another great choice. Both options add a nice texture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the roasted tomatoes and pasta ahead. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, just heat them together in a pan. Add a splash of pasta water to keep it creamy.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. It uses ricotta and Parmesan cheese, making it rich and tasty. If you want a vegan option, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor.
What can I serve with Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta?
This pasta pairs nicely with fresh salads or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad adds a peppery touch. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works well. It balances the dish’s richness.
Where can I find the full recipe?
You can find the full recipe for Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta earlier in this article. Enjoy making this delicious dish!
Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a simple and tasty dish. You start with basic ingredients like cherry tomatoes, pasta, and ricotta. Then, enhance the flavors with cheese and herbs. Follow our step-by-step guide for perfect results. Remember to adjust for creaminess and use fresh ingredients for added flavor. You can even personalize the dish with proteins or veggies. Store leftovers correctly or repurpose them for a new meal. Enjoy making this dish your own with the tips provided. It’s a dish worth sharing with friends and family.
