This ricotta pasta salad is a light yet creamy dish that combines roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and soft ricotta cheese into a perfectly balanced meal. It works beautifully as a summer pasta salad, a quick lunch, or an elegant side dish for gatherings and picnics. The roasted zucchini and sweet tomatoes add depth, while the ricotta and basil pesto create a smooth, Italian-inspired creaminess without making the dish feel heavy.
PREP 10 MIN
COOK 20 MIN
SERVES 4
Ingredients
2 zucchini, halved lengthwise, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
250 g cherry tomatoes
250 g yellow baby tomatoes
300 g large spiral pasta (fusilli)
½ cup (150 g) ricotta cheese
⅓ cup basil pesto
2 tbsp warm water
⅓ cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
⅓ cup (35 g) grated parmesan cheese
Baby basil leaves, to serve
Method
Preheat the oven to 220°C / 200°C fan-forced. Toss the zucchini with olive oil in a roasting pan and season to taste. Roast for 10 minutes. Add the cherry and yellow baby tomatoes and roast for another 10 minutes, until the tomatoes just collapse and the zucchini is tender. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to packet instructions (about 12 minutes) until al dente. Drain well.
In a small bowl, whisk together the ricotta, basil pesto, and warm water until smooth and creamy.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, ricotta-pesto sauce, and sliced olives. Serve topped with grated parmesan cheese and fresh baby basil leaves.
Tips and Variations
For a lighter version of this ricotta pasta salad, use light ricotta cheese. You can add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture, or a little lemon zest to brighten the flavors. Whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well in this recipe.
Nutrition Information (Estimated per serving)
Calories: ~540 kcal
Protein: ~22 g
Carbohydrates: ~75 g
Fat: ~18 g
Fiber: ~5 g
Calcium: High
Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.
Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Pasta Salad
It is creamy without being heavy, perfect for meal prep or entertaining, and delicious served warm or cold. The classic Italian flavors get a fresh twist that makes this dish both comforting and light.
This ricotta pasta salad shows how simple ingredients can come together to create an elegant and satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Serving, Storage and Flavor Notes
This ricotta pasta salad is not only easy to prepare, but it is also very flexible when it comes to serving and storage. It can be enjoyed cold, at room temperature, or even slightly warm, which makes it suitable for different seasons and occasions. While it is especially refreshing when served chilled on hot days, it can also be served slightly warm for a more comforting feel, and therefore works well beyond summer.
Because the flavors continue to develop over time, this dish is also ideal for making ahead. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day, as the pasta and vegetables have more time to absorb the creamy ricotta dressing. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two or three days, and it is therefore a great option for meal prep, quick lunches, or stress-free entertaining.
Although the salad is creamy, it never feels heavy, because ricotta naturally coats the pasta rather than melting into a rich sauce. As a result, the texture stays light and smooth, while still being satisfying. At the same time, the acidity of the tomatoes balances the creaminess, and the herbs and olives add depth and contrast, so the overall flavor remains fresh and well-rounded.
This balance of creaminess and freshness is also why this ricotta pasta salad works so well in many situations. It can be served as a light main dish, but it also pairs nicely with grilled foods or simple side dishes. Because it does not require reheating and holds its texture well, it is easy to transport, easy to store, and easy to enjoy whenever needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ricotta pasta salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, this ricotta pasta salad can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving and refresh with a small drizzle of olive oil if needed.
Is it better served warm or cold?
Both options work well. This ricotta pasta salad is excellent slightly warm, but it is also refreshing when served cold, especially during warmer months.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle are ideal because they hold the creamy ricotta sauce well and ensure an even coating.
Can ricotta be substituted?
Yes, ricotta can be substituted with cottage cheese for a lighter option, while mascarpone will create a richer result. However, ricotta offers the best balance of creaminess and lightness.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this ricotta pasta salad is vegetarian. For a vegan version, use plant-based ricotta and parmesan alternatives.
How long does it keep?
When stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, this ricotta pasta salad is best consumed within 48 hours. Freezing is not recommended, as ricotta changes texture when thawed.
Why This Salad Is Perfect for Summer
Light yet satisfying, this ricotta pasta salad is an ideal choice for warm-weather meals. Because it is creamy without being heavy, it feels refreshing even on hot days, while still providing enough substance to keep you full. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, and it does not require reheating, which makes it especially practical during the summer months.
In addition, this salad travels well and holds its texture, so it is perfect for picnics, outdoor gatherings, or casual lunches. The fresh vegetables and herbs bring brightness to the dish, while the ricotta adds a smooth, cooling contrast. As a result, this ricotta pasta salad offers a balanced, easygoing option that fits naturally into relaxed summer eating.
A Little Background on Ricotta Pasta Salad
Ricotta pasta salad is a lighter variation of the Italian pasta salad, also known as insalata di pasta, which is traditionally served cold or at room temperature. Ricotta is a fresh Italian whey cheese with a soft, creamy texture that adds richness to dishes without making them heavy, which is why it is especially popular in Mediterranean cuisine. Pasta salads of this kind are based on simple ingredients, yet they offer a fresh and well-balanced flavor profile.
You can learn more about pasta salad and its origins on Wikipedia:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasta_salad
For more information about ricotta cheese, its characteristics, and traditional uses, see:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ricotta
Final Thoughts
This ricotta pasta salad is built on simple, well-balanced ingredients and relies on thoughtful preparation rather than unnecessary complexity. Because it is light yet satisfying, easy to make ahead, and consistently flavorful, it works just as well for everyday meals as it does for casual entertaining.
If you enjoyed this ricotta pasta salad and are looking for another fresh, Italian-inspired dish to serve alongside it, a grilled tomato bruschetta makes an excellent pairing. It’s simple, vibrant, and perfectly suited for summer lunches or relaxed dinners.
Read the grilled tomato bruschetta recipe:
https://rooftopbakery.com/grilled-tomato-bruschetta/
