As I stood in my kitchen the other evening, the aroma of roasted cherry tomatoes and garlic wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a quaint Italian trattoria. It was the perfect moment to prepare my Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a soul-soothing experience. This comforting recipe not only celebrates the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes, but it also boasts a creamy, luscious ricotta sauce that’s delightful yet easy to whip up. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an inviting gathering, it adapts effortlessly to any gluten-free needs or extra vegetables you might have on hand. Intrigued? Let’s dive into this deliciously uncomplicated recipe together! Why is this pasta recipe a must-try? Simplicity at Its Best: This Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is uncomplicated, making it perfect for anyone, regardless of skill level. Flavor Explosion: The roasted tomatoes and garlic offer a sweet, rich flavor that perfectly complements the creamy ricotta cheese. Versatile Delight: You can easily swap out pasta types or add in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, making it adaptable for all tastes. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Crowd-Pleaser: Its comforting nature makes it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings, sure to impress your guests! Pair it with some Cheesy Garlic Bread for an unforgettable meal! Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta Ingredients • Dive into this delightful comfort dish with all the essential components! For the Pasta Pasta (250 g / 9 oz) – Choose any shape you love; whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works beautifully too. For the Roasting Cherry Tomatoes – These bring natural sweetness and juicy texture; feel free to substitute with grape tomatoes for a different flavor! Garlic Bulb – Essential for a mellow, deep flavor when roasted, elevating the overall richness of the pasta. Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and helps the tomatoes roast evenly; swap for avocado oil if desired. Salt (1 tsp + more for pasta water) – Crucial for enhancing taste; adjust according to your preference. Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Add mild heat and seasoning; feel free to increase for a spicier kick! For the Creamy Sauce Ricotta Cheese (200 g / 7 oz) – Provides a luscious, creamy texture to the sauce; opt for part-skim ricotta for a lighter version if you’d like. For the Garnish Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds a pop of color and fresh aroma; feel free to substitute with parsley or arugula when basil isn’t available. With these simple ingredients, your Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta will transform into a comforting masterpiece that no one will be able to resist! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). While the oven heats up, prepare a baking tray by rinsing 250 grams of cherry tomatoes and placing them in a single layer. Next, take a whole garlic bulb, slice off the top to expose the cloves, and place it on the tray alongside the tomatoes. Step 2: Season the Vegetables Drizzle about two tablespoons of olive oil over the cherry tomatoes and garlic bulb, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the flavors. Toss the tomatoes gently to make sure they are evenly seasoned before placing the tray in the oven. Step 3: Roast to Perfection Roast the tomatoes and garlic in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. As they cook, watch for the tomatoes to burst, releasing their juices, while the garlic becomes golden brown and soft. This roasting process intensifies their natural sweetness, creating the delicious base for your Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta. Step 4: Cook the Pasta While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your choice of pasta (about 250 grams) according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente texture. Just before draining, reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency later. Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Once the roasted garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the softened cloves into a bowl, discarding the skin. Use a fork to mash the garlic until smooth and creamy, which will blend beautifully into the ricotta cheese for a luscious sauce in your Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta. Step 6: Mix the Ricotta Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine 200 grams of ricotta cheese with the mashed garlic. Stir in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency. This mixture will serve as the rich sauce that envelops your pasta, giving it that comforting quality we all love. Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce Once the pasta is finished cooking and drained, add it directly into the bowl with the ricotta and garlic mixture. Gently fold everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Then, add the roasted tomatoes along with their juices, mixing carefully to combine all the flavors for your Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta. Step 8: Adjust and Serve If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a bit more of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish that enhances this delightful dish. How to Store and Freeze Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta Fridge: Store any leftover Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain creaminess. Freezer: You can freeze the pasta without the fresh basil for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat in a skillet on low heat, adding a little reserved pasta water or olive oil to restore its creamy texture. Making Ahead: Roasted tomatoes and garlic can be prepared a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, then cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve. Variations & Substitutions for Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta Feel free to make this comforting dish your own with delightful tweaks and substitutions! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a delicious adaptation without missing out on flavor. It’s an easy switch that ensures everyone can enjoy. Vegetable Medley: Swap out cherry tomatoes for a mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even butternut squash. This not only adds color but a beautiful depth of flavor. Creamy Vegan Twist: Replace ricotta with cashew cream or tofu blended with lemon juice for a creamy plant-based version. Your taste buds will thank you! Herb Infusion: Elevate the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano in the roasting process. This little touch infuses the dish with an aromatic flair. Extra Spice: For those who crave heat, try stirring in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. The spicy kick gives it a delightful zing that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Protein-Packed: Throw in some grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for an added protein boost. It transforms the pasta into a heartier meal, perfect for filling up after a long day! Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture. This contrast adds a wonderful nutty flavor that enhances each bite. Cheese Variation: Swap ricotta for goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist. It introduces a bold flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes. As you whip up your Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or some irresistible Cheesy Garlic Bread for a truly delightful dining experience! Make Ahead Options These Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the cherry tomatoes and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, allowing their sweetness to deepen while stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Prepare the ricotta sauce by mashing the roasted garlic and mixing it with ricotta; this can last for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook your pasta fresh and combine it with the prepared sauce and roasted tomatoes. This strategy saves you precious time and guarantees that your comforting dish is just as delicious as when made fresh! What to Serve with Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta Creating a well-rounded meal is as delightful as the comforting pasta itself, filled with flavors that sing together! Garlic Bread: The perfect companion, this toasty delight enhances your dining experience with its crunchy texture and savory flavor, ideal for scooping up that creamy sauce. Arugula Salad: A fresh peppery salad adds a vibrant touch, balancing the richness of the pasta. Toss in lemon vinaigrette for a zesty lift. Grilled Chicken: For added protein, serve alongside nicely seasoned grilled chicken. Its smoky flavor wonderfully complements the sweetness of roasted tomatoes. Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal veggies like zucchini, or bell peppers to roast alongside your pasta. They add color and healthy crunch to your meal. Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink choice that cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the meal’s flavors without overwhelming them. Tiramisu: End on a sweet note! This classic Italian dessert will impress your guests and provide a delightful contrast to the savory pasta. Each pairing offers a unique contrast or complement, crafting a dining experience as comforting as the Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta itself! Expert Tips for Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water! It’s key to adjusting the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency in your Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta. Perfect Roasting: Keep an eye on garlic and tomatoes! Roasting too long can lead to bitterness; just until they’re caramelized is ideal for that delightful sweetness. Al Dente Pasta: Aim for al dente texture when cooking your pasta. Overcooked pasta can make the dish mushy, which we definitely want to avoid! Creamy Sauce Boost: To achieve even more creaminess, mix in additional reserved pasta water gradually when combining with the ricotta and garlic. Vegetable Flexibility: Feel free to incorporate your favorite seasonal vegetables! Add zucchini or spinach to make your Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta even more vibrant and nutritious. Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta Recipe FAQs What’s the best way to select cherry tomatoes? Absolutely! When picking cherry tomatoes, look for vibrant colors and a firm texture. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate overripeness. The best choices are those that feel heavy for their size, which signifies juiciness. How should I store leftover pasta? You can store your leftover Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a bit of water to help maintain the creamy texture. Can I freeze Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta? Yes, you can freeze the pasta! Just be sure to leave out the fresh basil, as it doesn’t freeze well. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet, adding a little reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. What if my sauce is too thick? Not a problem! If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water when mixing it. This will help loosen the sauce to a lovely, creamy consistency that clings perfectly to the pasta. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! For gluten-free options, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and check the labels on the ricotta and other sauces for any allergens. If you’re cooking for pets, avoid ingredients like garlic, as it can be harmful to them. Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta: Comfort in Every Bite Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta is a comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a delicious experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta250 g Pasta Choose any shape you love; whole wheat or gluten-free works beautifully.For the RoastingCherry Tomatoes Substitute with grape tomatoes for a different flavor.Garlic Bulb Essential for a mellow, deep flavor when roasted.2 tbsp Olive Oil Swap for avocado oil if desired.1 tsp Salt Adjust according to your preference.½ tsp Black Pepper Feel free to increase for a spicier kick.For the Creamy Sauce200 g Ricotta Cheese Opt for part-skim for a lighter version if you'd like.For the GarnishFresh Basil Leaves Substitute with parsley or arugula when basil isn’t available. Equipment OvenBaking traylarge potMixing BowlFork Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare a baking tray with cherry tomatoes and sliced garlic bulb.Drizzle olive oil over tomatoes and garlic, season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat.Roast the tomatoes and garlic for 25-30 minutes until tomatoes burst and garlic is golden and soft.Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions; reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining.Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into a bowl and mash until smooth.Mix ricotta cheese with mashed garlic, adding reserved pasta water for a creamy consistency.Add cooked pasta to the ricotta and garlic mixture, fold gently to coat pasta evenly, then add roasted tomatoes and juices.Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water and season to taste; serve garnished with fresh basil. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze without basil for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with water to maintain creaminess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
