Tomato Ricotta Pasta Dinner (Print)

Pasta tossed in creamy tomato-ricotta sauce, finished with Parmesan and herbs. Simple, comforting, and quick.

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 340g dried pasta (such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 can (410g) crushed tomatoes
05 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
06 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
07 - 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Cheese and Garnishes

09 - 200g ricotta cheese
10 - 60g grated Parmesan cheese
11 - Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
12 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 120 ml of cooking water, and set aside.
02 - While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to brown.
03 - Add crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
04 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in ricotta cheese and cook for 2–3 minutes, mixing until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
05 - Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix until everything is well combined.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar if using.
07 - Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Whole milk ricotta or mascarpone can enrich the sauce for a silkier texture.
02 - For a lighter version, use low-fat ricotta or add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
03 - Any pasta shape works well, allowing for personal preference or pantry availability.
04 - Roasted garlic provides a sweeter, mellow flavor to the sauce if desired.
05 - Pair with a green salad and chilled white wine for a balanced meal.
06 - Fresh tomatoes may be substituted by blanching, peeling, and crushing before adding to the sauce.

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