Name: Indulgent Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta Delight Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups ripe tomatoes, halved; 1 whole garlic head, sliced at the top; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine); 1 cup fresh basil, plus extra for garnish; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

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Introduction

This indulgent roasted tomato and garlic ricotta pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. Roasting the tomatoes and garlic brings out rich sweetness, while creamy ricotta and fresh basil add a luxurious finish.

A neat mound of creamy orange pasta sits in the center of a white bowl, each layer of spaghetti coated evenly with a smooth sauce. Scattered across the top are small bright red roasted tomatoes and finely chopped dark green herbs. A light dusting of white grated cheese covers the surface, adding texture. Two fresh green basil leaves sit upright on the very top, providing a fresh and vibrant finish. The bowl rests on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups ripe tomatoes
1 whole garlic head
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 cup fresh basil
12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine recommended)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 2: Halve the ripe tomatoes and arrange them cut-side up in a baking dish. Slice the top off the whole garlic head and add it to the dish.
Step 3: Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and garlic, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes, then cover loosely with foil and roast for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 4: While roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 5: Squeeze the softened garlic cloves into a blender. Add the roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, ricotta cheese, and extra chili flakes if using. Blend until smooth.
Step 6: Transfer the sauce to a skillet and heat over medium. Stir in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired creaminess.
Step 7: Serve garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with olive oil if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan option, substitute ricotta with plant-based cheese and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Add extra chili flakes for more heat or omit them for a milder flavor.
Try using avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile.
Reserve some fresh basil for garnish to add a burst of aroma and color.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

A nest of spaghetti pasta with a creamy orange sauce tightly wrapped in one pile on a white bowl, sprinkled with finely grated white cheese and small green herb pieces scattered over the pasta. A fresh green basil leaf sits on top, adding a contrast in color. The pasta looks smooth and coated evenly with the sauce. The bowl rests on a table with a white marbled texture, giving a clean and bright look to the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for roasting?

Fresh ripe tomatoes work best for roasting as they caramelize nicely and develop deeper flavors. However, canned whole peeled tomatoes can be used if fresh are unavailable, though roasting times may vary and the flavor could be less vibrant.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or dry?

Reserve pasta water before draining and add it gradually to the sauce as you combine it with the pasta. This starchy water helps create a creamy texture and prevents the sauce from drying out.