Garden Summer Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Ricotta

Imagine a warm summer evening where the kitchen fills with the fragrant aroma of garlic, cherry tomatoes, and freshly torn basil. Garden summer pasta with cherry tomatoes and ricotta brings all these sensations together in a dish that’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for casual family dinners or elegant gatherings, this recipe combines simplicity with sophistication, all in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garden summer pasta with cherry tomatoes and ricotta is a delightful mix of fresh, seasonal ingredients and rich, creamy textures. The sweetness of blistered cherry tomatoes blends with tangy balsamic vinegar and the luxurious creaminess of ricotta. Paired with delicate angel hair pasta, it’s a perfect celebration of summer’s vibrant produce.

Ingredients for Garden Summer Pasta

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Angel hair pasta	8 oz.	Cook until al dente for best results.
Olive oil	2 tablespoons	Extra virgin for better flavor.
Garlic	6 cloves, minced	Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
Cherry tomatoes	14 oz.	Whole; choose ripe, juicy ones.
Salt	¼ teaspoon	Adjust to taste.
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon	Freshly ground for best flavor.
Red wine	¼ cup	Dry red wine enhances the sauce.
Balsamic vinegar	2 tablespoons	Adds tang and a hint of sweetness.
Ricotta cheese	¼ cup	Creamy and mild; balances the tangy sauce.
Unsalted butter	3 tablespoons	Creates a silky finish.
Parmesan cheese	Optional, for topping	Freshly shredded for garnish.
Fresh basil	Optional, for topping	Torn or chopped to bring in herby freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the angel hair pasta for 4–5 minutes or until al dente.
• Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the cooking water. Set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
• Toss in the cherry tomatoes, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to blister.
• Pour in the red wine and balsamic vinegar. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and the tomatoes to release their juices, creating a rich sauce.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
• Stir in the butter and ricotta cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes creamy and fully incorporated.
• If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

4. Serve and Garnish

• Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls.
• Top with shredded parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
• Serve immediately and enjoy this light and flavorful meal!

Tasty Variations and Substitutions

1. Add Protein

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta can turn this light dish into a heartier meal.

2. Use Different Cheese

Swap ricotta for goat cheese or mascarpone for a tangy or richer flavor profile.

3. Vegetable Boost

Add sautéed zucchini, roasted red peppers, or a handful of baby spinach for extra nutrition.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Replace the angel hair pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.

Tips for the Best Garden Summer Pasta

• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest tomatoes and basil available for maximum flavor.
• Quick Cooking: Angel hair pasta cooks fast—don’t overcook it!
• Wine Choice: A dry red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir works best. If you prefer, use white wine for a lighter taste.
• Timing: This dish is best served fresh. The creamy sauce and vibrant flavors shine brightest when the pasta is hot off the stove.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	~400
Protein	~10g
Carbohydrates	~45g
Fat	~15g
Fiber	~3g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.)

FAQs About Garden Summer Pasta

1. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, substitute ricotta with plant-based ricotta and use vegan butter or olive oil instead of traditional butter.

2. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time. Reheat the sauce and combine it with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

3. What can I use instead of red wine?

You can use vegetable broth or white wine as an alternative to red wine.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

The sauce freezes well, but pasta can become mushy when reheated. Freeze the sauce separately and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the pasta gummy.

6. What can I serve alongside this dish?

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Garden summer pasta with cherry tomatoes and ricotta is a simple, satisfying dish that brings the best of summer to your table. Its quick preparation and vibrant flavors make it a go-to recipe for busy evenings or when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

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