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Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

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A creamy and comforting pasta dish made with sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, soft garlic, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan for a simple yet flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or cozy dinners.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta of choice
  • 4 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups spinach (optional)
  • 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced (optional)
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage, cooked (optional)
  • Burrata cheese for topping (optional)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Place cherry tomatoes and garlic cloves on a baking tray.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Roast for 25–30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and become slightly caramelized and the garlic is soft.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
  6. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  7. Transfer the roasted tomatoes and garlic to a large bowl and gently mash some of them to create a light sauce.
  8. Stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese until creamy and combined.
  9. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water, tossing until evenly coated.
  10. Add spinach if using and stir until wilted.
  11. Finish with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and optional lemon zest before serving.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to help create a smooth and creamy sauce.
  • Fresh cherry tomatoes provide the best roasted flavor.
  • Add grilled chicken or sausage for extra protein.
  • Burrata can replace ricotta for an even creamier texture.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition