![To create this delightful dish, you will need: - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved - 3 cloves garlic, unpeeled - 250g (9 oz) pasta of your choice, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or penne - 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese - 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - A handful of fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Zest from 1 lemon You should have these pantry staples on hand: - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Salt to taste - Freshly cracked black pepper to taste You can add these garnishes for extra flavor: - Extra Parmesan cheese - Crushed red pepper flakes for heat - More fresh basil leaves This recipe balances fresh, bold flavors with simple ingredients. You can find the full recipe for Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta at the top of this section. Enjoy the cooking process, and feel free to modify the ingredients to fit your taste! Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for roasting. Next, grab a large, rimmed baking sheet. Place the halved cherry tomatoes on it. Don’t forget the unpeeled garlic cloves! Drizzle the veggies with extra virgin olive oil. Then, sprinkle salt and freshly cracked black pepper on top. Toss everything gently to coat. Spread the tomatoes and garlic out in a single layer. Now, slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Roast the tomatoes and garlic for about 20-25 minutes. You want the tomatoes to blister and burst. The garlic should turn golden and soft. After roasting, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. This cooling time makes them easier to handle. While the tomatoes and garlic roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta—spaghetti, fusilli, or penne work well. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, save 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later. For the full recipe, check the details above. Seasoning is key to a tasty dish. I like to use salt and black pepper. They bring out the natural flavors in the tomatoes and garlic. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs, like basil, add a pop of flavor too. Don’t forget to taste as you go. It helps you adjust the seasoning just right. For creamy ricotta pasta, texture matters. Start with high-quality ricotta cheese. It should be smooth and rich. If your mixture is too thick, add a little pasta water. This helps create a silky sauce that clings to your pasta. Mix well until everything is combined. The goal is creamy but not runny. Roasting tomatoes and garlic brings out their sweetness. Use a rimmed baking sheet for easy cleanup. Spread the tomatoes and garlic in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly. Keep an eye on them while they cook. You want blistered tomatoes and soft garlic. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Trust me, the smell will be worth it. For the full recipe, check out our Roasted Tomato & Garlic Ricotta Pasta. {{image_4}} You can easily add protein to your roasted tomato and garlic ricotta pasta. Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu work well. For chicken, grill or sauté it first, then slice it. Toss it with the pasta for a hearty meal. For shrimp, sauté them until pink and cooked through. Tofu can be cubed and roasted to add texture. Each option brings its own flavor and makes the dish more filling. If you want a vegan version, swap the ricotta for plant-based cheese or blended tofu. Use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor. You can also add cashew cream for richness. For the Parmesan, use a vegan alternative or skip it altogether. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without any animal products. Feel free to change the tomatoes and garlic with seasonal vegetables. In spring, use asparagus or peas for a fresh twist. In fall, add roasted butternut squash for sweetness. Zucchini and bell peppers are great in summer. Mixing in seasonal veggies makes the pasta vibrant and adds variety to your meal. Enjoy experimenting with what you have on hand! After enjoying your roasted tomato and garlic ricotta pasta, let it cool down. Transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store the pasta in the fridge for up to three days. If you have extra sauce, keep it separate to maintain the pasta's texture. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the pasta gently. Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between. This prevents hot spots. If it seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir well to combine everything again. If you want to freeze your roasted tomato and garlic ricotta pasta, start by letting it cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out any air before sealing. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned before. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above. Yes, you can use any pasta you like. I enjoy spaghetti, fusilli, and penne. Each type brings a different texture. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best bite. Leftovers will stay good for about three days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. To keep the pasta fresh, it’s best to reheat only what you plan to eat. If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese. Both provide a creamy texture. You might add a bit of lemon juice for tang. This can help mimic ricotta’s flavor. For the full recipe, click here: [Full Recipe]. We covered easy recipes and tips for a tasty dish. Fresh ingredients and pantry staples are key. Roasting tomatoes and garlic helps build flavor, while tips guide texture. Don't forget protein options or vegan swaps to fit your needs. Store wisely to enjoy leftovers. Remember, cooking is fun. Try new things. Use this information to make your meals better. Keep it creative and enjoy every bite!](https://roastedflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/146d34eb-bdd7-4b54-b255-5c1c6cf268e1-300x300.webp)
Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta
Indulge in a delightful Roasted Tomato & Garlic Ricotta Pasta that’s bursting with flavor! This easy recipe combines juicy roasted cherry tomatoes and creamy ricotta for a satisfying dish perfect for any night. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll create a meal that will impress your family and friends. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring this delicious dish to your table tonight!