Tomato Basil Pasta with Light Ricotta Cream Sauce

Variation

1. Substitute ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese for a richer, silkier sauce.
2. Add sautéed spinach or baby kale to the sauce for extra greens and nutrients.
3. Mix in grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed twist on this vegetarian dish.

Cooking Notes

1. Be careful not to brown the garlic it can turn bitter and overpower the sauce.
2. If your ricotta is very thick, whisk it with a tablespoon of pasta water before adding to the sauce.
3. For a smoother sauce, blend the diced tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with a crisp garden salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
2. Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a few dollops of ricotta for a creamy finish.
3. Pair with a glass of iced tea or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio.

Tips

• Don’t skip the pasta water it’s the secret to a silky, well-emulsified sauce.
• Fresh basil is best added at the end to keep its vibrant color and flavor.
• This recipe reheats beautifully; just add a splash of water or milk before warming.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 11g
• Sodium: 410mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   Yes! Use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes. Roma or cherry tomatoes work best just simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Definitely. Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

3. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
   Yes! Substitute ricotta with a plant-based version or blended cashew cream, and skip the Parmesan or use vegan cheese.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?
   It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat gently and add a splash of water to restore the creamy texture.

Conclusion

This Tomato Basil Pasta with Light Ricotta Cream Sauce is the perfect balance of comfort and freshness quick enough for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for guests. The creamy ricotta pairs beautifully with juicy tomatoes and aromatic basil, creating a dish that’s light, satisfying, and utterly crave-worthy. Give it a try and make it your new go-to pasta favorite! 🍝🌿

Tomato Basil Pasta with Light Ricotta Cream Sauce

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• Author: Avery
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Tomato Basil Pasta with Light Ricotta Cream Sauce is the kind of comforting, fresh-flavored dish that makes weeknight dinners feel just a little more special. Creamy ricotta blends with sweet tomatoes and fresh basil for a light yet luscious sauce that hugs every strand of pasta. It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces of your preferred pasta (such as spaghetti)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
• 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup of freshly chopped basil
• Salt and pepper for seasoning
• Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add the ricotta cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your liking.
5. Toss the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, coating it thoroughly with the sauce. Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy every creamy, herby bite!

Notes

• For extra depth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering the tomatoes.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe too.
• Ricotta can be swapped with cottage cheese for a lighter texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Pasta
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: tomato basil pasta, ricotta cream pasta, vegetarian pasta, easy weeknight pasta