Craving a comforting, yet surprisingly light pasta dish? Look no further than this creamy tomato ricotta pasta recipe! This meatless marvel is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The vibrant flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes beautifully complement the rich, tangy ricotta, creating a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is incredibly simple, using readily available ingredients to deliver maximum deliciousness. Forget jarred sauces – we're making our own fresh tomato sauce from scratch, elevating this dish to a whole new level.
This easy-to-follow recipe uses simple ingredients to deliver a satisfying and flavorful meal. Get ready to experience a burst of fresh tomato flavor combined with the luxurious creaminess of ricotta cheese. Ready to create this delectable pasta dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Pot
Ingredients
- Oil: 2-3 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 small, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Hot pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Tomato sauce: 20 oz (600ml)
- Salt: 1-2 teaspoons
- Black pepper: 2 teaspoons
- Rigatoni pasta: 3 cups
- Fresh basil leaves: a few
- Ricotta cheese: 1/2 tub
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Simmer Sauce
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5-10 minutes until yellowish.
- Add minced garlic and hot pepper flakes (optional). Stir and continue cooking.
- Pour in tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 2. Cook Pasta and Prepare Ricotta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni pasta and stir after the first minute to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and some pasta water. Mix until creamy.
Step 3. Combine and Finish the Dish
- Add the creamy ricotta mixture to the simmering tomato sauce. Stir well until combined and the sauce turns a pinkish color.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss until well coated.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Sautéed White Beans with Garlic, Sage & Tomatoes: Easy Side Dish Recipe
Tips
- Use a good quality tomato sauce for best results.
- Break fresh basil leaves by hand to preserve their flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with penne, rotini, fusilli, or any short pasta you prefer.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving for the best texture.
3. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta, you can try using a similar creamy cheese like mascarpone or even a well-drained cottage cheese, but the flavor will be slightly different.
This creamy tomato ricotta pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal any night of the week, impressing yourself and your loved ones with minimal effort. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!