Creamy Ricotta and Walnut Fusilli Recipe

Pasta with Ricotta and Walnuts Recipe: A Creamy Delight for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for a comforting and quick pasta dish with rich flavors, this Pasta with Ricotta and Walnuts is a perfect choice. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and elegant. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients for Pasta with Ricotta and Walnuts

Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 portion (approximately 1/4 of the recipe)

Instructions for Pasta with Ricotta and Walnuts

1. Prepare the Pasta:
   Begin by boiling a large pot of water. Add a generous amount of salt and then cook the fusilli according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about 150g of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Ricotta Sauce:
   While the pasta is cooking, focus on preparing the sauce. Start by finely chopping the walnut halves into smaller pieces. This will allow the nuts to blend more evenly with the ricotta.
   In a large, non-stick pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over low heat. Add the ricotta cheese to the pan and gently stir with a spatula, warming the cheese and creating a creamy base. Make sure not to cook it at high temperatures, as you want the ricotta to stay smooth and velvety.

3. Create the Sauce’s Creamy Texture:
   Gradually add the reserved pasta water, about 150g, to the ricotta while stirring constantly with a hand whisk or spatula. This step will help to loosen the ricotta and create a rich, creamy sauce that will coat the pasta perfectly.

4. Season the Sauce:
   Once the sauce has reached a smooth consistency, season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, grate a pinch of nutmeg into the sauce. This will add a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the creaminess of the ricotta.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked fusilli directly to the pan with the ricotta sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce for about 1 minute, allowing it to absorb the creamy mixture. Stir well to ensure the fusilli is evenly coated with the ricotta and walnut sauce.

6. Finish and Serve:
   Remove the pan from the heat. Serve the pasta immediately, garnishing with whole walnut halves for a touch of texture and elegance. Optionally, you can add a final sprinkle of black pepper or a dash of olive oil for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions:
This pasta with ricotta and walnuts pairs wonderfully with a light green salad and a glass of crisp white wine. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a flavorful first course at a dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The combination of smooth ricotta and crunchy walnuts creates an irresistible texture contrast that takes a simple pasta dish to the next level. It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that are sure to impress your guests or your family. With a pinch of nutmeg, this pasta dish has a warm, comforting taste that is perfect for any time of the year.

Pro Tips:

• If you prefer a more intense walnut flavor, feel free to toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan before chopping and adding them to the sauce.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce before mixing it with the pasta.
• Make sure to save some pasta water before draining the fusilli, as it helps in adjusting the consistency of the sauce.

Enjoy your Pasta with Ricotta and Walnuts!
This creamy, nutty pasta dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love.