Sizzling Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe

Crafting a delightful tomato basil ricotta pasta with spinach brings pure culinary magic to your kitchen.

Creamy ricotta blends seamlessly with vibrant ingredients, creating a dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Fresh spinach adds brilliant green color and nutritional depth to this classic Italian-inspired meal.

Fragrant basil leaves whisper promises of summer’s bounty, dancing through each delectable bite.

Mediterranean flavors merge effortlessly, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Weeknight dinners transform when you combine these beautiful components with minimal effort.

Storage Tips for Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, ensuring the pasta is completely cooled before sealing.
• Warm individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying out.
• Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water to restore moisture and prevent sticking, stirring frequently.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but note that ricotta's texture may slightly change upon thawing.

FAQs About Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

• Is this pasta dish vegetarian?

Yes, the Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach is completely vegetarian, featuring no meat ingredients.

• Can I use a different type of cheese if I don't have ricotta?

Definitely! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

• How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

Consider adding chickpeas, tofu cubes, or pine nuts to increase the protein content without changing the dish’s overall flavor profile.

• Is this pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.

Why Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Is So Flavorful

• Breeze Through Preparation: This recipe offers a simple, straightforward cooking process that even beginner cooks can master with confidence, requiring minimal kitchen skills.
• Nutrition-Packed Delight: Loaded with fresh spinach, tomatoes, and herbs, the dish delivers a powerful punch of vitamins and nutrients in every delicious bite.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Perfect for busy families, this pasta comes together in just a few minutes, providing a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Adaptable to different tastes, the recipe can easily be customized with additional ingredients or served as a main course or side dish for various occasions.

Ingredients for Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

• Pasta: A staple that serves as the base of this delightful dish.
• Ricotta Cheese: A creamy cheese that adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
• Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes that provide a juicy and tangy flavor to the pasta.
• Spinach: A nutritious green that adds color and earthy taste to the recipe.

• Garlic, Basil: Herbs and aromatics that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

• Olive Oil: A key ingredient that helps sauté garlic and create a flavorful cooking foundation.

How to Prepare Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Drop your pasta into a pot of salted boiling water and cook it exactly as the package recommends. Once tender, drain the pasta completely in a colander, letting all the water escape.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Vegetable Base

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh spinach leaves

Cook the mixture until spinach softens and wilts beautifully.

Step 3: Blend Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Fresh chopped basil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend all ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine and Coat Pasta

Transfer the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring each pasta strand gets coated with the luscious sauce.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Serve the pasta immediately while steaming hot. Scatter additional fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and extra herbal flavor.

Pro Tips for Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

• Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and vibrant color in your pasta dish.
• Use whole milk ricotta for a creamier, richer texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Tear fresh basil leaves instead of chopping to release more aromatic oils and enhance the herb's flavor.
• Adjust the consistency by adding a splash of pasta water if the sauce seems too thick or dry.
• Swap spinach with arugula for a peppery twist or use kale for added nutritional value.

Variations of Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

• Mediterranean Medley: Replace spinach with arugula and add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy Greek-inspired version.
• Spicy Sunset: Incorporate red pepper flakes and diced jalapeños to create a fiery pasta with a kick of heat.
• Protein Power: Mix in grilled chicken or crispy pancetta for a more substantial and protein-rich meal.
• Vegan Veggie Blast: Swap ricotta with cashew cream, use nutritional yeast, and add roasted bell peppers for a plant-based alternative.

Pairing Suggestions for Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach

• Boost Freshness with Crisp White Wine: Pair this light, herby pasta with a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the tomato and basil flavors, cutting through the creamy ricotta.
• Enhance Texture with Crunchy Side Salad: Serve alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add a peppery contrast and provide a refreshing crunch against the soft pasta.
• Elevate with Grilled Protein Companion: Add a light grilled chicken breast or seared shrimp on the side to introduce lean protein and create a more substantial meal without overwhelming the delicate pasta.

Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta with Spinach Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy tomato basil ricotta pasta delights with fresh spinach and rich Italian flavors. Quick weeknight dinners find new passion in this simple, elegant Mediterranean-inspired dish you’ll savor from first bite to last.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or your choice)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Main Dairy Components:

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Seasonings and Aromatics:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil pasta in generously salted water at a rolling boil for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then thoroughly drain in a colander.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, gently sautéing minced garlic until aromatic and golden, approximately 1-2 minutes.
3. Add fresh cherry tomatoes to the skillet, allowing them to soften and slightly blister, then introduce fresh spinach leaves, stirring until they wilt and become vibrant green.
4. Reduce heat and fold creamy ricotta cheese into the vegetable mixture, creating a smooth, luxurious sauce. Incorporate freshly chopped basil, seasoning with sea salt and cracked black pepper.
5. Introduce cooked pasta directly into the skillet, gently tossing to ensure every strand is lavishly coated with the ricotta and vegetable blend.
6. Transfer to serving plates immediately, garnishing with additional torn basil leaves for a burst of fresh herbaceous flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

• Avoid overcooking pasta to maintain a perfect al dente texture that holds sauce beautifully.
• Choose ripe, fresh tomatoes for the most vibrant flavor and natural sweetness in the dish.
• Swap regular pasta with gluten-free or whole wheat options to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences.
• Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat kick that complements the creamy ricotta and fresh basil.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 317 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 120 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg