Description
A creamy, comforting pasta made with roasted tomatoes, caramelized garlic, and whipped ricotta for a rich yet bright and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 6 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz pasta (rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup pasta water (as needed)
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Spread tomatoes and garlic cloves on the sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Roast for 18–22 minutes, until tomatoes burst and garlic is softened.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Squeeze roasted garlic from skins into the ricotta mixture and blend until creamy.
- Add roasted tomatoes and their juices to the pasta, then stir in the whipped ricotta mixture.
- Add pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Top with fresh basil and additional Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Use whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Blend ricotta with a splash of pasta water for an even smoother sauce.
- Add spinach or roasted zucchini for extra veggies.
- For more richness, drizzle with extra olive oil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian