Description
If you’re craving a creamy, flavorful pasta dish with a hint of tang and a touch of sweetness, this Pasta with Sun-dried Tomato Ricotta Pesto is your next go-to recipe. It’s rich, savory, and surprisingly easy to make. The smooth ricotta balances beautifully with bold sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this dish brings gourmet vibes without the fuss.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta:
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12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well)
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Salt (for boiling water)
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1 tbsp olive oil (optional, to prevent sticking)
For the Sun-dried Tomato Ricotta Pesto:
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1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained)
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¾ cup ricotta cheese (full-fat for creaminess)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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¼ cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
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1 clove garlic
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1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
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2 tbsp olive oil (plus more as needed for blending)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1–2 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)
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2–4 tbsp reserved pasta water (for thinning the sauce)
For Garnish:
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Extra grated Parmesan cheese
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Chopped fresh basil
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Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
Step 2: Make the Sun-dried Tomato Ricotta Pesto
4. In a food processor or blender, combine sun-dried tomatoes, ricotta, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, and basil.
5. Pulse until the mixture is chunky.
6. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice, then blend until smooth.
7. If needed, add 1–2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water to help blend into a creamy sauce.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
8. Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large mixing bowl.
9. Add the pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
10. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Add more pasta water as needed for a silkier texture.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
11. Divide pasta among plates or bowls.
12. Top with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Notes
Use Oil-Packed Sun-dried Tomatoes – They blend more easily and pack more flavor.
Toast Your Nuts – Lightly toasting the pine nuts or walnuts brings out a richer, nuttier flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Al dente pasta holds up best with creamy sauces.
Reserve Pasta Water – It helps create a smoother, restaurant-quality sauce.
Add Vegetables – Spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes work well stirred in at the end.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian