Description
A creamy and comforting roasted tomato and garlic ricotta pasta featuring blistered cherry tomatoes, soft roasted garlic, and a luscious ricotta cheese sauce with fresh basil and Parmesan. This Italian-inspired dish is perfect for an easy weeknight meal that combines wholesome ingredients with rich, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
pasta and vegetables
- 12 ounces pasta (rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 head garlic
sauce and seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Preheat and roast vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Slice the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, then wrap it tightly in foil. Roast both tomatoes and garlic in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the tomatoes become blistered and the garlic softens completely.
- Cook pasta: While the tomatoes and garlic roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
- Prepare ricotta sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Once the garlic has cooled enough to handle, squeeze the softened roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them into the cheese mixture thoroughly.
- Toss pasta with sauce and tomatoes: Add the roasted tomatoes along with the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it seems thick or dry, stirring carefully to integrate.
- Garnish and serve: Finish the dish by sprinkling the fresh chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta cheese for a richer, creamier sauce texture.
- Add sautéed spinach or cooked chicken for added protein and vegetables.
- Red pepper flakes can be adjusted or omitted depending on your preference for heat.
- Reserve pasta water is key to achieving a smooth, cohesive sauce.
