Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli

This Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli is a delightful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Combining creamy ricotta, fresh broccoli, and zesty lemon, it offers a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, making it an excellent choice for both family gatherings and casual dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The ricotta cheese adds a rich creaminess, while lemon zest brightens up the flavors.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from broccoli and ricotta, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Feel free to substitute your favorite pasta or add additional vegetables to customize it.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup since everything cooks in one skillet!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: The skillet is crucial for combining all ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together as you cook.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot ensures that the pasta cooks evenly without sticking.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for mixing the ricotta and Parmesan before adding them to the pasta.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces pasta (your choice)

For the Broccoli

• 2 cups broccoli florets

For the Cheese Sauce

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

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How to Make Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli

Step 1: Roast the Broccoli

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the broccoli florets on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In your skillet over medium heat, combine roasted broccoli with drained pasta.
2. Add ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese into the skillet.
3. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water gradually until desired creaminess is achieved.

Step 4: Finish with Lemon Zest

1. Stir in lemon zest for added brightness.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your delicious Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli!

How to Serve Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli

Serving Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli can transform a simple dish into an impressive meal. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious pasta dish.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Add a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Slice grilled chicken breast and serve it on top for added protein and satisfaction.

Complement with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs perfectly to balance the creaminess of the pasta.

Garnish with Nuts

• Toasted Pine Nuts: Scatter toasted pine nuts over the dish for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crispy Garlic Bread: Offer warm garlic bread on the side to soak up any leftover creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli

Perfecting your Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance the flavors of the ricotta and roasted broccoli.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and high-quality ricotta cheese for the best taste.
• Cook pasta al dente: Ensure your pasta is al dente for the perfect texture that holds up well in the sauce.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a bit of reserved pasta water when mixing everything together.
• Zest it up: Don’t skip on lemon zest; it brightens the dish and adds freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli

To round out your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that complement Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli beautifully.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic make a hearty side.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant color and delicate flavor.
3. Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil enhances your meal’s overall freshness.
4. Grilled Vegetable Platter: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection provides a smoky contrast.
5. Quinoa Salad: A flavorful quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a healthy option.
6. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: Serve this cool dip alongside pita chips for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few common mistakes can make your Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli less enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving some pasta water can lead to a dry dish. Always save a cup of pasta water before draining; it helps in achieving the desired creaminess.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking the broccoli too long can make it mushy. Roast until tender-crisp for the best texture and flavor.
• Using cold ricotta: Adding cold ricotta directly from the fridge can cool down your pasta. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish can result in bland flavors. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon zest as needed during cooking.
• Not mixing well: Failing to combine all ingredients properly can leave some pasta without sauce. Toss everything thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly or use vacuum-sealed bags.

Reheating Skillet Ricotta Pasta With Roasted Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli.

What type of pasta works best?

Any type of pasta works well, but shorter shapes like penne or fusilli cling better to the sauce.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp makes an excellent addition for extra protein.

How do I make this dish vegan?

Substitute ricotta with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

What toppings can I use?

Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or toasted pine nuts for added flavor and texture.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the broccoli and cook the pasta in advance; just combine them when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. We encourage you to try this easy weeknight meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!