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
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place cherry tomatoes and garlic cloves on a baking tray.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and become slightly caramelized and the garlic is soft.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Transfer the roasted tomatoes and garlic to a large bowl and gently mash some of them to create a light sauce.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese until creamy and combined.
- Add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water, tossing until evenly coated.
- Add spinach if using and stir until wilted.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 35mg