Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s as creamy as it is refreshing? Look no further than this delightful Creamy Pasta with Ricotta, Mint, and Garlic Sauce! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that bursts with the vibrant flavors of fresh mint and rich ricotta, making it the perfect choice for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for this Italian-inspired masterpiece that’s both simple and sophisticated. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create a plate of pasta that’s not just food, but a celebration of flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with 4-6 quarts of water and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- While water is heating, prepare the sauce ingredients. Finely mince the garlic cloves and roughly chop the fresh mint leaves. Set aside.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, minced garlic, chopped mint leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Whisk together until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Drain the pasta and immediately add it to the ricotta mixture. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as fusilli or penne, to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect creamy consistency in your sauce.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh mint leaves and high-quality ricotta cheese for the best flavor. The freshness of the ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final dish.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add more reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to make sure the flavors pop.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an eye-catching finish, garnish your pasta with extra mint leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it hot to savor the creamy texture and vibrant flavors at their peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
