Bow Tie Pasta With Lemon Ricotta

Key Techniques for Perfect Pasta

Cook the bow tie pasta until it’s al dente to ensure it maintains a slight bite, offering a pleasing texture against the creamy ricotta. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes in boiling salted water. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. A large pot with ample water helps achieve even cooking, and reserving pasta water can be a lifesaver for creating a silky sauce later on.

When sautéing garlic in the olive oil, be cautious not to burn it. Just one minute over medium heat is usually sufficient for it to release its aromatic oils. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes fragrant and turns a light golden color. If it starts browning too rapidly, reduce the heat to avoid bitterness in your sauce.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Ricotta cheese is the star of this dish, lending creaminess without overpowering other flavors. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part-skim ricotta or even cottage cheese blended until smooth. The lemon zest and juice add a refreshing brightness to the creaminess, so I recommend using a fresh lemon for the best flavor rather than bottled juice.

For added flavor complexity, consider mixing in grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese into the sauce before combining with the pasta. You can also throw in some frozen peas or spinach just before adding the pasta for a pop of color and nutrition. This dish can easily accommodate seasonal vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Ricotta can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to picnics or potlucks. If you plan on serving it cold, let the pasta cool slightly before mixing it with the sauce to avoid splitting the ricotta. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves just before serving to enhance the dish's presentation and flavor.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as it can cause the ricotta to become grainy.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep. Simply adjust the quantity of each ingredient proportionally, and keep in mind that you may need a larger pot for cooking the pasta. With larger volumes, you might also want to extend the cooking time slightly to ensure everything heats evenly.

When scaling, remember to taste as you go, especially when adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper. Due to variations in ingredient quality and freshness, what works for a smaller batch may need tweaking to achieve the same vibrant flavors.

Variations to Try

For a heartier version, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp to the dish. Simply toss them in with the pasta when combining with the sauce, ensuring they are heated through to maintain flavor and texture. This addition can transform a light dish into a fulfilling main course.

Another variation is to switch up the herbs; fresh parsley or chives can be excellent alternatives or complements to basil. Each herb will impart a unique flavor and aroma, giving you the option to customize the dish based on what you enjoy or have available.