Introduction
Whole Roasted Ricotta Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the comforting texture of pasta. This recipe elevates a simple pasta dish into a flavorful experience, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The concept revolves around roasting whole ricotta in the oven, allowing it to develop a golden, caramelized exterior while maintaining its creamy interior. Mixed with pasta and fresh ingredients, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 250g of dried pasta of your choice
– 250g of whole milk ricotta
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves
– Zest of one lemon
– 100g of cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This allows you to prepare all the ingredients and get everything ready for cooking while your oven preheats, making it a quick and efficient process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for this dish is around 30 minutes as the pasta cooks and the ricotta roasts to perfection. The total time from start to finish is about 45 minutes. This recipe typically yields 4 servings, making it ideal for a small family meal or a cozy dinner with friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta
Place a large piece of ricotta in the center of a baking dish, ensuring it has enough space around it for even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Ricotta
Sprinkle the ricotta generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs
Tear fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme over the ricotta, adding aromatic flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the ricotta and herbs with a good amount of extra virgin olive oil for richness.
Step 6: Roast the Ricotta
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the ricotta for about 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden and slightly bubbling.
Step 7: Cook the Pasta
While the ricotta is roasting, cook your choice of pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 8: Combine Pasta with Ricotta
Once the ricotta is ready, remove it from the oven. Gently mix the hot pasta with the roasted ricotta, adding some reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
Step 9: Add Finishing Touches
Fold in additional fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, and adjust the seasoning if needed for balance.
Step 10: Serve Immediately
Serve the whole roasted ricotta pasta immediately, garnishing with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing the Pasta
Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer; the dish works well with both long and short varieties.
Note 2: Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the dish before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced to your liking.
Note 3: Oven Variations
Cooking times may vary based on your oven type; keep an eye on the ricotta to prevent over-browning.
Note 4: Leftovers
This dish can be enjoyed as leftovers but may require a little extra olive oil or water when reheating to maintain creaminess.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting involves cooking food evenly in an oven, which enhances flavors and textures. Ensure the pasta and ricotta are well mixed with seasonings before roasting for maximum flavor infusion.
Layering
Layering is essential for this dish. Start by spreading a layer of pasta on the bottom of your baking dish, followed by the ricotta and then additional pasta layers to create a beautiful, cohesive dish.
Seasoning
Seasoning is crucial when making this dish. Use fresh herbs and spices to elevate the flavors of the ricotta and pasta, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Baking
Baking allows all the ingredients to meld together. Monitor the dish closely towards the end of the baking time to achieve a golden, bubbly top without overcooking.
Serving
Serve the whole roasted ricotta pasta hot, allowing it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps maintain its structure when being served.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with other soft cheeses, such as mascarpone or cottage cheese, to achieve a different taste and texture.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta varieties, such as penne or fusilli, work best for this dish as they hold the cheese and sauce well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving to ensure it’s hot and fresh.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the pasta dish.
Conclusion
Creating whole roasted ricotta pasta is an inviting and delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal. The combination of creamy ricotta, robust flavors from fresh herbs, and the delightful texture of pasta makes it a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy nights in. This recipe not only showcases the beauty of simplicity in cooking but also allows for personal touches with various ingredients and accompaniments.
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