Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that comes together in no time, you’ve landed on the right recipe! This Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is one of my absolute favorites. There’s something magical about the way roasting brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the rich flavor of garlic. Plus, the creamy ricotta makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a small family gathering, this dish is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. You can whip it up after a long day, and it still tastes gourmet. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend too much time cooking. So grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy ricotta and sweet roasted tomatoes, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Flavor Packed: The roasting process deepens the flavors of tomatoes and garlic for an irresistible taste.
• Versatile: This recipe allows for plenty of variations to suit your taste preferences or pantry items.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance, making dinner even easier on hectic nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta. These are things you might already have in your kitchen, making this dish even more convenient!

For the Pasta

• 450 g (1 pound) ripe medium vine tomatoes, halved
• 1 small whole garlic head (or 4 large garlic cloves, unpeeled)
• 30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 225 g (8 oz) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or any type you love)
• Pasta cooking water (adjust to desired consistency)
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)

For the Sauce

• 120 g (1/2 cup) ricotta cheese
• Handful fresh basil leaves
• Grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, for serving

Variations

This Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap ricotta with mascarpone for an even creamier texture or use a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
• Make It Spicy: Add more chili flakes or some sliced fresh chili peppers for a kick!
• Include Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or chickpeas for an added protein boost that will keep you full longer.

How to Make Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This helps ensure that our tomatoes roast perfectly, creating those lovely caramelized edges we all adore.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes and Garlic

Place your halved tomatoes on a baking dish. Cut the top off your whole garlic head to expose those lovely cloves and nestle it next to the tomatoes. Drizzle everything with olive oil and season with salt and pepper—this step is crucial as it enhances their flavors while roasting.

Step 3: Roast Away!

Pop your baking dish into the oven for about 20 minutes. Afterward, cover it with kitchen foil and return it to roast for another 10 minutes. This additional step traps steam, ensuring your tomatoes get blistered while softening up that garlic beautifully.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While waiting for those delicious aromas from the oven, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente in heavily salted water. Remember to reserve about 240ml (1 cup) of that starchy pasta water before draining—it’ll be our secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency later!

Step 5: Blend It All Together

Once roasted, carefully squeeze out those soft garlic cloves from their skins into a blender with roasted tomatoes, some fresh basil leaves, chili flakes if using, ricotta cheese, and about 60ml (1/4 cup) of reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth—this will be our creamy sauce!

Step 6: Combine Everything

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine your blended tomato mixture with cooked pasta. Toss until everything is evenly coated in that luscious sauce! If it’s looking too dry, drizzle in more pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your creation—add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve generously in bowls topped with fresh basil leaves and grated parmesan cheese.

Enjoy every single bite of this delightful Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

Making this dish is a breeze, but a few helpful tips can take your roasted tomato and garlic ricotta pasta to the next level!

• Choose ripe tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes makes a huge difference. Opt for fresh, ripe vine tomatoes as they are sweeter and more flavorful, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
• Don’t skip the roasting time: Roasting the tomatoes and garlic until they’re blistered brings out their natural sugars and creates a depth of flavor that can’t be matched by simply sautéing them, resulting in a richer sauce.
• Reserve pasta water: Always keep some pasta cooking water on hand! This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the consistency of your sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta.
• Experiment with herbs: While fresh basil is delightful, don’t hesitate to add other herbs like oregano or thyme for an added layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and complement the roasted ingredients beautifully.
• Serve immediately for best results: Pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh. If you must prepare it ahead of time, store the sauce separately from the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta

Presenting your roasted tomato and garlic ricotta pasta in an appealing way can make all the difference at mealtime. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A handful of torn basil leaves not only adds vibrant color but also infuses a lovely aroma that enhances each bite.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A light sprinkle of grated parmesan adds a savory richness that complements the creamy ricotta perfectly.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of chili flakes on top can provide a delightful kick that balances out the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfectly toasted slices of garlic bread make for an irresistible pairing. The crispy texture contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta while complementing its flavors.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can offer a crisp counterbalance to the richness of the pasta. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for bright flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your meal. They can be tossed with olive oil and herbs before roasting alongside your tomatoes.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: Lightly steamed greens can serve as a nutritious side while also adding a touch of vibrant color to your plate.

Enjoy crafting this delicious meal filled with warmth and flavor – it’s perfect for any night when you need something quick yet satisfying!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing for quick and delicious dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the pasta completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, try to consume it sooner.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
• Stir until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delightful dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help you:

Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta in Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor or texture, you can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or cottage cheese. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the taste of the dish.

How can I make my Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta spicier?

To add more heat, consider increasing the amount of chilli flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or toss in some fresh chopped red pepper along with the roasted ingredients for an extra kick!

What kind of pasta works best for Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta?

You can use any pasta you like! Spaghetti and fettuccine are great options, but feel free to experiment with your favorites like penne or farfalle for a fun twist.

Can I add vegetables to Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just toss them into the roasting pan during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Happy cooking!