Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

Name: Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 450 g ripe medium vine tomatoes, halved (Look for ripe tomatoes that are slightly soft to the touch.); 1 small whole garlic head, unpeeled (Can also use 4 large garlic cloves.); 30 ml olive oil (Use high-quality olive oil for drizzling.); Salt and pepper to taste (Adjust seasoning after blending sauce.); 1/2 tsp chili flakes (Optional; adjust according to taste.); 120 g ricotta cheese (Can adjust amount for creaminess.); Handful fresh basil leaves (Adds freshness to the sauce.); 225 g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or other type) (Use your preferred pasta.); 240 ml reserved pasta cooking water (Adjust to desired consistency.); Grated parmesan cheese for serving (Garnish before serving.)

Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes and garlic combined with creamy ricotta, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It is a beautiful meal that is not just satisfying but also comforting. This dish is ideal for any occasion, whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in by yourself. The simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more.

Why is this dish so appealing? Firstly, roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and mellows the garlic, making them not just tasty but also aromatic. The creaminess of the ricotta complements the textures perfectly, allowing each bite to deliver a wonderful experience. Plus, it is quick to prepare, meaning you will have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Why make this recipe

There are many reasons to make Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta. For starters, it is a fantastic way to use fresh, ripe tomatoes, which are often found in abundance during the warmer months. Cooking them in the oven not only enhances their flavor but also makes them soft and juicy. The garlic, when roasted, becomes sweet and creamy, adding depth to the dish that goes beyond a standard pasta sauce.

Another great reason to try this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, it is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Additionally, the dish can easily be customized to suit your preferences, whether you enjoy an extra kick from chili flakes or prefer to keep it mild.

Ultimately, this recipe embodies home-cooked comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction that you’ll want to return to again and again.

How to make Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

Making Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is as easy as it is enjoyable. You will need to gather a few fresh ingredients and follow some simple steps. The result is a dish bursting with flavor and an aroma that will fill your kitchen.

Ingredients:

450 g ripe medium vine tomatoes, halved
1 small whole garlic head (or 4 large garlic cloves, unpeeled)
30 ml olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
225 g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or other type)
Pasta cooking water (adjust to desired consistency)
1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
120 g ricotta cheese
Handful fresh basil leaves
Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Directions:

To start, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). While the oven heats, place the halved tomatoes on a baking dish. Take the whole garlic head, cut off the top to expose the cloves, and place it next to the tomatoes. Drizzle everything with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. It’s time to roast! Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast the tomatoes and garlic for about 20 minutes. After this time, cover the baking dish with kitchen foil and return it to the oven for another 10 minutes. This will ensure the tomatoes are nicely blistered and the garlic is soft.

While the tomatoes and garlic are roasting, cook your pasta in a large pot of boiling water, following package instructions to get it al dente. Be sure to reserve about 240ml (1 cup) of the pasta cooking water before draining.

Once the tomatoes and garlic are done, it’s time to blend. Squeeze the soft garlic cloves into a blender along with the roasted tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and chili flakes if using. Add in the ricotta cheese and about 60ml of the reserved pasta water. Blend this mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.

In a large skillet, combine the blended mixture with the cooked pasta. Heat this over medium until warmed through, adjusting the consistency with more pasta water as needed. Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. When ready to serve, garnish each portion with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.

Time Breakdown

The total time to prepare and cook Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is approximately 50 minutes. This includes about 30 minutes for roasting the tomatoes and garlic, and around 20 minutes for cooking the pasta and blending the sauce.

How to serve Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

When serving Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta, presentation is key. Start by placing a generous helping of the pasta on each plate. Next, garnish with a few fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese to add flavor and a beautiful finishing touch. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the dish even more. For a complete meal, serve it with a side salad and a glass of your favorite white wine.

How to store Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will remain fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of water or extra olive oil to adjust the consistency since the pasta may thicken as it sits.

Tips to make Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta turns out perfectly. First, when selecting tomatoes, look for ripe ones that are slightly soft to the touch. The better the tomatoes, the better the flavor of your dish.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, don’t skip the chili flakes, but add them according to your taste preference. For a creamier texture, feel free to adjust the amount of ricotta cheese added. Lastly, make sure to save some pasta cooking water, as it is key to achieving the right sauce consistency.

Variation

This recipe is versatile and can be made in various ways. For a different take, consider adding some sautéed spinach or kale for extra nutrition. You could also toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Swapping the ricotta for another cheese such as goat cheese or mascarpone can offer a new dimension of flavor as well.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

A serving of Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is not just delicious; it is also packed with nutrition. On average, one serving contains approximately 450 calories, with 20 grams of protein and 15 grams of healthy fats. It is a great source of vitamins from the tomatoes and basil, making it a well-rounded dish.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Opt for whole or diced canned tomatoes, and adjust the roasting time as needed since they won’t require as long in the oven.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a vegetarian dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, provided you make sure to check your ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best results.

In conclusion, Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dining table. With easy preparation and plenty of variations, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close at hand. Whether entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet meal, this pasta is sure to impress.