If you are a pasta lover, then you know that some sauces can make or break the dish. While classics like marinara and Alfredo are always delicious, why not elevate your pasta game and try something new? Ricotta sauce, with its rich and creamy texture, is the perfect addition to any pasta dish. Not only does it add a luxurious touch, but it also brings a subtle tanginess that complements a variety of ingredients. Here are a few ricotta sauce recipes that you need to try.
1. Lemon Ricotta Pasta:
Perfect for a light summer meal, this lemon ricotta pasta is refreshing and full of flavor. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions and toss it in the ricotta sauce. Add fresh basil leaves and cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. This dish is perfect for those who love a zesty, yet creamy pasta sauce.
2. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells:
Stuffed pasta shells are a crowd-pleasing dish, and when paired with a ricotta sauce, they become even more irresistible. Start by preparing the filling by blending ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Stuff the mixture into cooked pasta shells and place them in a baking dish. Pour a generous amount of ricotta sauce over the shells and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake until golden and bubbling. This dish is a true comfort food, perfect for a cozy dinner.
3. Roasted Red Pepper and Ricotta Pasta:
For a hint of sweetness and a touch of smokiness, this roasted red pepper and ricotta pasta is a winner. Begin by roasting red bell peppers until the skin is slightly blackened, then remove the skin and seeds. Blend the peppers with ricotta cheese, garlic, olive oil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss your cooked pasta with the sauce and add baby spinach leaves for extra freshness. This recipe will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
4. Pesto Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken:
Combine two classic sauces into one unforgettable dish – pesto and ricotta. Start by making a traditional pesto sauce using basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and olive oil, then mix it with ricotta cheese until well combined. Cook your favorite pasta and grill some chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Toss the pasta in the ricotta-pesto sauce and top it with sliced grilled chicken. This dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for a satisfying dinner.
5. Butternut Squash and Sage Ricotta Pasta:
Embrace the flavors of fall with this butternut squash and sage ricotta pasta. Roast butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender. Meanwhile, in a blender, combine ricotta cheese, fresh sage leaves, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook your pasta to al dente and toss it in the sauce along with the roasted butternut squash. This dish provides a delightful combination of creamy ricotta sauce, earthy sage, and sweet squash.
These ricotta sauce recipes are easy to make yet deliver impressive flavors. Whether you’re craving a light lemony zest, a rich and comforting dish, or a fall-inspired creation, there’s a ricotta sauce recipe for every palate. Elevate your pasta game with these delicious ricotta sauce recipes and prepare to dazzle your taste buds.
