Penne with Ricotta
Elevate your pasta night with this creamy and satisfying Penne with Ricotta recipe, a simple yet elegant dish that combines Italian-inspired flavors in just 30 minutes. Delightfully al dente penne is tossed in a rich, velvety ricotta sauce enhanced with Parmesan cheese, garlic-infused olive oil, and the bright zest of lemon. A splash of reserved pasta water ensures the perfect creamy texture, while fresh basil lends a burst of herbaceous freshness. This comforting yet refined dish is ideal for weeknight meals or casual entertaining, and pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, Penne with Ricotta is your go-to recipe for a cozy Italian feast at home.
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Ingredients
- 400 grams penne pasta
- 250 grams ricotta cheese
- 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 120 milliliters reserved pasta water
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120ml of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 3
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but do not let it brown.
Step 4
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked, drained penne pasta to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the garlic-infused oil.
Step 6
Gradually stir in the ricotta mixture, tossing it gently with the pasta. Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess and consistency.
Step 7
Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the pasta and give it a final toss to incorporate all the flavors.
Step 8
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 9
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (871.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2251.7 |
| Total Fat 76.4g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 30.7g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0g | |
| Cholesterol 203.2mg | 0% |
| Sodium 3465.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 312.5g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 15.4g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 0.7g | |
| Protein 99.1g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1603.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 15.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1111.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories