Tomato Garlic Ricotta Pasta: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Tomato Garlic Ricotta Pasta: Prepare to be transported to a sun-drenched Italian trattoria with every single bite! Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a luscious, creamy sauce bursting with the bright flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and the delicate sweetness of ricotta cheese. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

Pasta, in its myriad forms, has been a cornerstone of Italian cuisine for centuries, evolving from humble beginnings to a globally beloved staple. The beauty of dishes like this Tomato Garlic Ricotta Pasta lies in their simplicity. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients allows each flavor to shine, creating a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

What makes this particular pasta dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the smooth, creamy ricotta against the slight bite of the pasta, punctuated by the juicy burst of tomatoes. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the ricotta lends a subtle sweetness that elevates the entire dish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. Plus, who can resist the allure of a warm, comforting bowl of pasta? I know I can’t!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Preparing the Tomato Garlic Sauce:

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Make sure your skillet is large enough to eventually accommodate the cooked pasta. You don’t want to overcrowd it!
2. Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Keep a close eye on it and stir frequently. Burnt garlic can ruin the whole dish!
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The aroma at this point should be amazing!
4. If using, add the red wine to the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate. The wine adds a lovely richness to the sauce, but it’s perfectly fine to omit it if you prefer.
5. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the Parmesan cheese is also salty, so start with a little less salt and adjust as needed later.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering time is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor.

Cooking the Pasta:

1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions. Be sure to salt the pasta water generously – this is your only chance to season the pasta itself! I usually add about a tablespoon of salt per gallon of water.
2. Cook the pasta until it is al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Overcooked pasta is never a good thing!
3. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be used to help the sauce cling to the pasta and create a creamier texture. It’s a secret weapon for pasta dishes!
4. Drain the pasta well. You don’t want excess water diluting your delicious sauce.

Combining Pasta and Sauce:

1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato garlic sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Make sure every strand is covered in that flavorful goodness!
2. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Start with a tablespoon or two and add more as needed until you reach your desired consistency. The pasta water will also help the sauce emulsify and cling to the pasta.
3. Stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Gently fold them into the pasta and sauce until they are well combined. The ricotta will create a creamy, luscious texture that is simply irresistible.
4. Add the chopped fresh basil and stir to incorporate. The fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors perfectly.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking. This is your chance to customize the dish to your own preferences.

Serving:

1. Serve the Tomato Garlic Ricotta Pasta immediately. It’s best enjoyed while it’s hot and the sauce is still creamy.
2. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes is also a nice touch if you like a little extra heat.
3. Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to leave any of that sauce behind!

Tips and Variations:

• For a richer flavor, use San Marzano tomatoes. These tomatoes are known for their sweetness and low acidity.
• Add vegetables to the sauce. Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be delicious additions.
• Make it spicy! Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Add protein. Cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shrimp would be great additions to this dish.
• Use different types of cheese. Try adding mozzarella, provolone, or Pecorino Romano cheese.
• Make it vegetarian. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth (if the recipe calls for it).
• Make it vegan. Use vegan ricotta cheese and vegan Parmesan cheese.
• For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce before adding the ricotta cheese. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can make the sauce gummy.
• If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every 1/4 cup of fresh basil.
• The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce before adding the pasta.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is key for the best texture.
• Salt your pasta water generously. This is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
• Reserve pasta water! It’s liquid gold for creating a creamy, emulsified sauce.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a simple green salad.
• Serve with garlic bread or crusty bread.
• Serve with a glass of red wine.
• Serve as a main course or a side dish.
• Bring it to a potluck or party.

Storage Instructions:

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• You may need to add a little water or broth to the pasta when reheating to prevent it from drying out.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 500-600
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 60-70g

Enjoy your delicious Tomato Garlic Ricotta Pasta! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Tomato Garlic Ricotta Pasta isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! From the vibrant, tangy tomatoes to the creamy, comforting ricotta and the pungent kick of garlic, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

But what makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a heartier meal, consider adding some grilled chicken or shrimp. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a touch of heat, while a handful of fresh basil or parsley will brighten the flavors even further. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of pasta – penne, fusilli, or even a gluten-free option would work beautifully. You could even roast the garlic for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.

Serving suggestions? Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love to serve this pasta with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would be the perfect accompaniment. For a more casual meal, serve it straight from the pot with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. And if you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), they’re just as delicious the next day.

This Tomato Garlic Ricotta Pasta recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to create something truly special. It’s a chance to unleash your inner chef and experiment with flavors and textures. It’s a way to bring joy and deliciousness to your table.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, even for beginner cooks. And the end result is so rewarding – a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Tomato Garlic Ricotta Pasta for yourself. Once you do, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavors? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, I’m always happy to help. This is one of my go-to recipes, and I hope it becomes one of yours too! Remember to tag me in your social media posts so I can see your culinary creations!

---