Vermicelli In Ricotta Sauce
Creamy vermicelli tossed in a rich ricotta sauce with Parmesan, garlic, and spices, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal with a luxurious flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook garlic in butter and olive oil for 1 minute over moderately low heat.
- Add milk, cream, salt, crushed red pepper, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer (not boil).
- Remove pan from heat.
- Add ricotta and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
- Whisk until smooth.
- Cook over moderately low heat until heated through.
- Toss the sauce with cooked vermicelli and garnish with 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider substituting half of the ricotta with mascarpone. If you prefer a bit more heat, add more crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne. To enhance flavor, try sautéing some spinach alongside the garlic for a nutritious boost, reminiscent of a delicious Spinach-Ricotta Filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the vermicelli in ricotta sauce garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken. Explore more Italian recipes for delightful side dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vermicelli In Ricotta Sauce contains roughly 1335 calories, with 8g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 141g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 480mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta instead of vermicelli?
Absolutely! While vermicelli is great for this dish, you can substitute it with other pasta types like spaghetti or fettuccine. Each will provide a different texture, so choose based on your preference.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it does not include meat. However, to enhance its flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. These additions can complement the ricotta sauce well.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta sauce ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe, then cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before tossing with freshly cooked vermicelli.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).