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Caramelle Pasta with Spinach & Ricotta in Parmesan Butter Sauce Recipe


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4 from 43 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Caramelle Pasta with Spinach & Ricotta is an elegant Italian-inspired main course featuring delicate candy-shaped pasta filled with creamy ricotta and spinach. The dish is finished with a light butter and Parmesan sauce, infused with garlic and fresh basil, offering a rich yet refined flavor perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 500 g (1 lb) caramelle pasta with spinach and ricotta filling

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

  • Fresh basil, chopped


Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the caramelle pasta and cook according to the package directions, typically around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta to use in the sauce.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter together with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to brown it.
  3. Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked caramelle pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Gently toss to combine, allowing the pasta water and butter to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
  4. Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Season the pasta generously with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you desire a bit of heat.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil, and serve the pasta immediately to enjoy it at its finest.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent the spinach and ricotta filling from breaking and leaking out.
  • For added texture, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or toasted pine nuts into the dish.
  • Serve alongside a crisp green salad and crusty bread to complement the flavors and make a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian