Tomato Basil Pasta with Light Ricotta Cream Sauce – Fresh, Creamy, and Effortlessly Elegant

Introduction

Tomato Basil Pasta with Light Ricotta Cream Sauce is the kind of dish that proves comfort food does not need to be heavy to be satisfying. This recipe brings together the brightness of ripe tomatoes, the freshness of basil, and the gentle creaminess of ricotta to create a pasta that feels balanced and refined. I first made this dish on a warm evening when I wanted something comforting yet not overly rich, and it instantly became a staple. The ricotta creates a soft, creamy sauce without relying on heavy cream, allowing the natural flavors of the tomatoes and herbs to shine through. It is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests. Each bite delivers freshness, subtle richness, and a clean finish that leaves you feeling satisfied rather than weighed down. This pasta is a celebration of simplicity, seasonal ingredients, and thoughtful technique.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is light yet creamy, quick to prepare, and made with accessible ingredients. It delivers fresh Mediterranean flavors, works well for busy evenings, and can easily be customized to suit different dietary preferences.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ingredients Breakdown

Pasta
Pasta serves as the base of the dish. Short shapes like penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well, while long pasta such as spaghetti creates a more elegant presentation.

Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta is the key to the light cream sauce. It provides creaminess without heaviness and creates a smooth, velvety texture when gently warmed.

Olive Oil
Olive oil adds richness and carries the flavors of the tomatoes and garlic. A good-quality olive oil enhances the overall taste.

Garlic
Garlic brings aromatic depth and savory balance to the sauce without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness and acidity. When lightly cooked, they burst and create a fresh, vibrant base for the sauce.

Fresh Basil
Fresh basil provides brightness and a fragrant finish. It should be added at the end to preserve its delicate flavor.

Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds savory depth and helps bind the sauce together while enhancing the ricotta’s mild flavor.

Salt
Salt enhances and balances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and richness of the ricotta.

Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and contrast to the creamy sauce.

Pasta Water
Reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce and creates a silky texture that coats the pasta evenly.

Directions

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, taking care not to brown it. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until softened and lightly bursting.

Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese, mixing gently to create a creamy base. Add a small amount of reserved pasta water to smooth the sauce if needed.

Add the drained pasta directly to the pan and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, adjusting seasoning to taste.

Remove from heat and fold in fresh basil just before serving. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Equipment Needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is roughly 20 minutes. Total time is approximately 30 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. Avoid high heat to prevent the ricotta from separating.

Variations and Customizations

This pasta is highly adaptable and welcomes creative additions. For extra protein, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs beautifully with the light ricotta sauce. I have also added sautéed mushrooms, which bring an earthy depth that complements the tomatoes.

For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the garlic. If you prefer a richer sauce, a small amount of cream can be stirred into the ricotta, though the light version is wonderfully balanced on its own.

Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used without affecting the flavor. You may also substitute fresh spinach for basil or use a combination of herbs for a more complex profile.

For a vegan-friendly version, plant-based ricotta alternatives work well and maintain the creamy texture.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is vegetarian and lighter than traditional cream-based pasta sauces. It provides carbohydrates, protein from ricotta and Parmesan, and healthy fats from olive oil. It can be adapted to suit gluten-free or lower-fat diets.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Silky Sauce
Use reserved pasta water gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.

Fresh Flavor
Add basil at the very end to preserve aroma and color.

Balanced Heat
Cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness.

Perfect Texture
Ricotta should be smooth and well-mixed before adding pasta.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat ricotta?

Yes, though full-fat ricotta provides the best texture.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Both short and long pasta shapes work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well.

Will the sauce thicken as it cools?

Yes, adding a splash of water while reheating helps.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent additions.

Is this pasta spicy?

No, but spice can be added if desired.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes are recommended, but canned can work in a pinch.

How do I prevent ricotta from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding ricotta.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is preferred for best flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild and creamy flavors are well-suited for children.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Pasta with Light Ricotta Cream Sauce is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an elegant, satisfying meal. Fresh, creamy, and thoughtfully balanced, this dish is ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions. Once you try it, it is sure to become a regular part of your rotation.

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