Pesto Ricotta Pasta: Creamy and Delicious Italian Pasta Recipe

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Ingredients for Pesto Ricotta Pasta

To make creamy pesto pasta with ricotta, you’ll need:

• • 400 grams of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work best).

• • 200 grams of ricotta cheese.

• • 100 grams of basil pesto (store-bought or homemade).

• • 2 garlic cloves, minced.

• • 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.

• • 50 grams of Parmesan cheese, grated.

• • ½ cup of reserved pasta water.

• • Salt and black pepper to taste.

• • A handful of fresh basil leaves for garnish.

• • 2 tablespoons of toasted pine nuts (optional).

How to Make Pesto Ricotta Pasta Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Pasta:

• 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your pasta of choice.

• 2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

• 3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

2. Prepare the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

• 2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

• 3. Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese and basil pesto, mixing until smooth.

• 4. Gradually add reserved pasta water to the sauce, stirring until it reaches a creamy consistency.

• 5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• 1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat each piece with the creamy pesto sauce.

• 2. Allow the pasta to cook with the sauce for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.

4. Serve and Garnish:

• 1. Serve the pasta in individual bowls or a large serving dish.

• 2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

• 3. Enjoy immediately!

A Funny Story About Creamy Ricotta Pesto Pasta

• One time, a friend of mine decided to make this creamy pasta for a romantic dinner. In an attempt to impress, they made the pesto from scratch. However, they accidentally added parsley instead of basil! The result was a pesto that tasted completely different, but it turned out to be surprisingly delicious. Since then, parsley pesto pasta has become a running joke at every gathering, proving that happy accidents often lead to new favorites!

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Creamy Pesto Pasta [ratings]

• 1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh basil, good-quality olive oil, and creamy ricotta cheese make all the difference.

• 2. Make Your Own Pesto: Homemade pesto is fresher and more flavorful than store-bought options.

• 3. Save Pasta Water: This is essential for creating a smooth and creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.

• 4. Serve Immediately: This pasta tastes best when served hot and fresh.

• 5. Experiment with Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.

FAQs FAQs for Pesto Ricotta Pasta

1. Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?

• Yes, mascarpone or cream cheese can work as substitutes, but ricotta offers a lighter texture that complements the pesto.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the creamy pesto sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it gently before tossing it with the pasta.

3. What pasta shapes work best with this sauce?

• Spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine are ideal choices as they hold the creamy pesto sauce well.

4. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

• Absolutely! Roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach make great additions to this creamy pesto pasta.

This Pesto Ricotta Pasta recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of Italian cuisine. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it out and share it with family and friends!