Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy Italian delight that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy? Look no further than our irresistible Fettuccine con la Ricotta! This simple yet luxurious dish combines the rich flavors of fresh ricotta and Parmesan cheese with perfectly cooked fettuccine, all brought together with fragrant basil. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. So grab your apron and get ready to savor every bite of this delectable pasta dish that promises to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettucine
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the fettuccine to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the ricotta sauce. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. This will help create a smoother sauce and help the cheese adhere to the pasta.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, then immediately transfer it to the bowl with the ricotta mixture.
- Gently toss the hot pasta with the ricotta sauce, adding small amounts of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a creamy, smooth consistency.
- Plate the pasta, and drizzle each serving with a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh ricotta and high-quality Parmesan cheese. Fresh basil adds a burst of aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: When boiling the pasta, make sure to add a generous amount of salt to the water. This is your chance to season the pasta itself, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always remember to save some of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining. This magical liquid can help you achieve the perfect creamy sauce consistency.
- Toss Gently: When combining the pasta with the ricotta sauce, toss gently to avoid breaking the fettuccine. The heat from the pasta will help melt the cheese and create a luscious coating.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your dish by adding sautéed vegetables, cooked chicken, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Serve Immediately: Fettuccine con la Ricotta is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it right away for the creamiest experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 460kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 60mg
