Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Broccoli

Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Broccoli is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the bright and tangy flavors of tomatoes and the earthy goodness of broccoli. Here's a simple recipe to make this tasty pasta dish:
Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (or use fresh tomatoes if in season)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. This will blanch the broccoli. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
2. Make the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet and stir well. Allow the tomatoes to simmer for about 5 minutes, breaking them up with a spoon as they cook.
4. Reduce the heat to low, then add the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses have melted into the tomato sauce and the mixture is creamy and well combined.
5. Season the sauce with the dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
6. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and broccoli are well coated with the sauce and heated through.
7. Serve the Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Broccoli hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

This Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Broccoli is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. Enjoy!