Pesto and Ricotta Pasta Creamy Pesto and Ricotta Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan Ingredients: 12 oz fusilli or penne pasta 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade) 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup reserved pasta water 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and black pepper to taste 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Lemon zest (optional) Directions: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in pesto and cook for another minute. Add ricotta and reserved pasta water. Stir to combine into a creamy sauce. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Stir in grated Parmesan, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: Approximately 540 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings #vegetarianrecipes #pastadish #basilpesto #ricottapasta #comfortfood #quickdinnerideas #weeknightmeals #homecooked #italiandinner #freshherbs #easypasta #pestolove #parmesancheese #garlicflavor #creamyricotta #dinnerunder30 #simpleingredients #easyrecipes #pastalovers #lightdinner Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with basil flavor! This Pesto & Ricotta Pasta is the ultimate comfort food made easy.