Patrick Oconnell
Ricotta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, but one of the most popular ways to enjoy it is with pasta. This combination creates a creamy and luscious sauce that complements the pasta beautifully. The simplicity of this dish, often requiring just pasta, ricotta, and a few additional ingredients, makes it a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. The sauce can be made with canned tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, or passata, and seasoned with garlic, basil, lemon zest, or olive oil to enhance the flavor. The addition of pasta water helps to create a smooth and creamy texture. Whether served as a simple weeknight meal or dressed up with sautéed vegetables, pasta with ricotta cheese is a delightful option that brings comfort and warmth to the table.
Using Ricotta Cheese with Pasta
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Ricotta cheese added to pasta has been described as tasting "incredible", “delicious”, “addictive”, “fresh”, “light”, and “easy”. |
| Texture | The addition of ricotta cheese to pasta creates a "smooth", "creamy", and “velvety” texture. |
| Preparation | Ricotta cheese can be added to pasta in various ways, including as a sauce, mixed with other ingredients, or sprinkled on top. It can be added during cooking or just before serving. |
| Ingredients | Common ingredients used with ricotta cheese and pasta include tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic, olive oil, basil, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, pasta water, and various types of pasta. |
| Time | Preparing pasta with ricotta cheese is generally quick and easy, with some recipes taking less than 30 minutes. |
| Occasion | Ricotta cheese pasta is suitable for impromptu meals, weekend dinners, and weeknight meals. It may be considered too simple for dinner guests. |
| Health | Ricotta cheese pasta is a good alternative for those who experience GERD or heartburn and are looking for a non-acidic option. |
| Storage | Ricotta cheese pasta is best eaten fresh as it tends to dry out and lose its creamy texture when cooled. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. |
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What You'll Learn
Ricotta cheese as a pasta sauce
Ricotta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various pasta dishes, adding a creamy texture and rich flavour. One popular way to use ricotta cheese with pasta is to create a simple sauce. This can be done by whisking together ricotta cheese, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until well blended. This sauce can then be combined with cooked pasta and a bit of pasta water for a quick and delicious meal.
Another option is to make a tomato-based sauce with ricotta. This involves creating a tomato sauce with olive oil, garlic, basil, and salt, which is then combined with cooked pasta and ricotta cheese. The ricotta cheese can be added directly to the sauce or served fresh on top of the pasta. This method creates a flavour profile reminiscent of southern-style lasagna but with a faster preparation time.
When using ricotta cheese as a pasta sauce, it is important to use fresh, thick, whole milk ricotta as skim milk varieties may be too thin and watery. Additionally, it is essential to season the dish adequately, as ricotta cheese has a rather bland flavour on its own.
Ricotta cheese pasta sauce is a versatile dish that can be customised with various ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, or different types of cheese. It is a quick and easy option for a satisfying meal, perfect for impromptu dinners or weekday meals.
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When to add ricotta to your pasta
Ricotta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be added to pasta in various ways to create delicious and creamy dishes. Here are some tips on when to add ricotta to your pasta:
As a Sauce Base
Ricotta cheese can be used as a base for a simple and quick pasta sauce. Drain the ricotta of any excess liquid by letting it sit in a sieve for a few minutes. Then, pass the ricotta through a sieve into a mixing bowl, where you can blend it with other ingredients such as salt, pepper, lemon zest, or parmesan cheese. This creates a smooth and creamy sauce that can be tossed with cooked pasta and a little pasta water to adjust the consistency.
During Cooking
Ricotta can be added to the pasta sauce during cooking, but it is best to add it towards the end. This is because ricotta mellows down the spices and flavours in the sauce, so it is essential to season the sauce again after adding the cheese. Adding ricotta during cooking is a great way to create a creamy and cohesive sauce that coats the pasta nicely.
After Cooking
Ricotta can also be added fresh to the pasta after it has been cooked and drained. Simply stir in some ricotta along with a little pasta water to create a creamy sauce. This method allows you to adjust the amount of ricotta to your preference and ensures that the ricotta's flavour and texture remain intact.
As a Filling or Topping
In dishes like stuffed shells or baked pasta casseroles, ricotta is commonly used as a filling or topping. It can be mixed with herbs, spices, and other cheeses to create a savoury filling or a creamy, cheesy topping.
With Various Pasta Shapes
Ricotta can be paired with various pasta shapes, from long pasta like spaghetti and linguine to shorter shapes like penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or shells. Keep in mind that shorter pasta shapes tend to work better with ricotta sauces, while longer pasta may be better suited for filling or topping with ricotta.
For a Quick and Easy Meal
Pasta with ricotta is a simple and quick meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It is an excellent option for a last-minute dinner or a comforting weeknight meal. The versatility of ricotta allows you to create a delicious dish with just a few basic ingredients.
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The best type of ricotta cheese for pasta
Ricotta cheese is a great ingredient to add to pasta, and the best type of ricotta cheese to use will depend on your preferences and the specific dish you are preparing. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best ricotta cheese for your pasta:
Texture
The texture of ricotta cheese can vary from smooth and creamy to slightly grainy or curdy. Some people prefer a smoother ricotta cheese for pasta, as it can blend more easily with the other ingredients. However, a slightly curdy texture can also work well, especially if you want to achieve a chunkier sauce.
Taste
Ricotta cheese can range in taste from mild and neutral to sweet and milky. For pasta, a mild or neutral-tasting ricotta is often preferred, as it allows the other flavours in the dish to shine through. However, if you are making a dessert pasta or want a sweeter sauce, a whole milk ricotta with a hint of sweetness might be a good choice.
Type of milk
Ricotta cheese is typically made with whole milk or part skim milk. Whole milk ricotta tends to be denser, creamier, and sometimes slightly sweeter. Part skim ricotta, on the other hand, can be looser and less rich, but still very tasty. For pasta, either type of milk can work, but whole milk ricotta may provide a richer, more indulgent sauce.
Freshness
Fresh ricotta cheese is highly regarded for its creamy texture and fresh flavour. If you have access to fresh ricotta, it can elevate your pasta dish. However, good-quality store-bought ricotta cheeses are also available and can be a convenient and tasty option.
Specific recommendations
Some specific ricotta cheese brands that have been recommended for pasta include:
- Organic Valley: This organic ricotta has a grassy, fresh, and creamy flavour that stands out from more neutral-tasting ricottas.
- Polly-O: This ricotta has a mild, neutral flavour and a nice texture that is loose and curdy without being too soupy.
- Galbani: This whole milk ricotta is dense and slightly sweet, making it a good choice for sweeter pasta dishes.
In conclusion, the best type of ricotta cheese for pasta will depend on your personal preferences and the specific dish you are preparing. Consider the texture, taste, type of milk, and freshness of the ricotta cheese to choose the option that will complement your pasta in the best way.
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How to make a creamy ricotta sauce
Ricotta cheese is a great option for a creamy pasta sauce. It is a simple, quick, and easy option for a delicious meal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a creamy ricotta sauce for pasta:
Ingredients
Firstly, gather your ingredients. You will need ricotta cheese, pasta of your choice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional flavourings such as garlic, lemon zest, or basil.
Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The amount of water depends on the amount of pasta you are cooking, but ensure there is enough to cook the pasta comfortably. Once the water is boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook until it is al dente, firm, but not too hard. Remember to reserve some pasta water for the sauce.
Make the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other ingredients to enhance the flavour, such as crushed garlic, basil, lemon zest, or parmesan cheese. If you are using garlic, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the garlic clove. Swirl it in the oil until it starts to sizzle, then remove it to achieve a subtle garlic flavour. If you prefer a stronger garlic taste, mince the clove and keep it in the sauce.
Combine and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pot with the sauce. Mix well, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to loosen it up and make it creamier. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
It is important to note that the ricotta cheese should be thick and creamy. If it has excess liquid, drain it by letting it sit in a sieve for a few minutes. Additionally, remember to reserve more pasta water than you think you need, as it is crucial for adjusting the sauce's consistency. Finally, feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavours. You can add cayenne pepper, pesto, sun-dried tomato paste, roasted chillies, or grilled vegetables to create unique and tasty variations.
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Adding extra ingredients to your ricotta pasta
Ricotta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various ways to enhance the flavour and texture of pasta dishes. Here are some ideas for adding extra ingredients to your ricotta pasta:
Herbs and Spices
Fresh herbs like basil, as well as spices such as nutmeg, can be added to ricotta pasta to elevate the flavour profile. For example, basil can be added to a tomato-based ricotta pasta sauce, while nutmeg complements spinach-ricotta combinations well.
Vegetables
Vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, peas, zucchini, and artichokes can be incorporated into ricotta pasta. These additions provide texture, flavour, and nutritional value. For instance, spinach can be added to a lemon ricotta pasta for a healthier and more filling dish.
Meat
Meat can be included in ricotta pasta dishes to make them more substantial. For a heartier meal, consider adding pork hocks or sausage to the tomato-based sauce. Alternatively, grilled chicken or salmon can be incorporated into a lemon ricotta pasta.
Cheese
Different types of cheese can be mixed with ricotta to create a creamier and more indulgent pasta dish. Parmesan cheese, for example, can be added to a tomato and ricotta sauce. Additionally, goat cheese can be combined with ricotta for a unique flavour profile.
Pasta Water
Adding pasta water to ricotta pasta is a simple way to adjust the consistency of the dish. It helps to emulsify the dish, making it creamier and smoother. However, it's important not to add too much pasta water to avoid making the dish watery.
Ricotta pasta provides a versatile base that allows for creativity in the kitchen. By incorporating various ingredients, you can easily customise your dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Ricotta cheese is a quick and easy way to make a creamy pasta sauce. It is a simple 2-ingredient recipe that is perfect Italian comfort food and can be ready in only 10 minutes. It is a great alternative to acidic tomato-based sauces.
It is recommended to use fresh, thick, whole milk ricotta as the skimmed milk variety can be too thin and watery.
Drain the ricotta from the liquid to make sure there isn't any excess water. Then, pass the ricotta through a sieve into a mixing bowl by pressing it through with a spoon. Add pasta water and mix until you have a smooth and creamy sauce.
You can add the ricotta to your pasta sauce when cooking or add it fresh when serving. However, as ricotta can mellow down spices, you may want to season your dish again after adding the cheese.
