Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that comes together in just 25 minutes? Look no further than this mouthwatering Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Broccoli! Bursting with vibrant flavors and creamy ricotta, this Italian-inspired dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutritious ingredients that will leave you feeling great. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into this culinary delight and discover how easy it is to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and release their juices.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Drain pasta in a colander.
- Return drained pasta to the skillet with broccoli and tomatoes. Add ricotta cheese and gently toss to combine, using reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce if needed.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: For the best texture, make sure to cook the pasta until al dente. This will ensure that it holds up well when mixed with the sauce and other ingredients.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and ripe cherry tomatoes for maximum flavor. The freshness of the vegetables will elevate the dish and make it even more enjoyable.
- Creamy Consistency: If you prefer a creamier sauce, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water when mixing in the ricotta. This will help create a luscious, velvety texture.
- Garlic Lovers: If you're a fan of garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two for a bolder flavor. Just remember to sauté it until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Garnish Wisely: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. It adds a beautiful touch and enhances the overall taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can easily be doubled for meal prep. Make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
