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Cranberry Spaghetti with Ricotta & Parmesan: A Festive Twist on Classic Comfort - Featured Image

Cranberry Spaghetti with Ricotta & Parmesan: A Festive Twist on Classic Comfort

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Learn how to make delicious Cranberry Spaghetti with Ricotta & Parmesan. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary magic. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Zest of one lemon

If cranberries are out of season, you can substitute with dried cranberries soaked in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. For a vegan twist, swap the ricotta and Parmesan with their plant-based counterparts.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful dish to your table:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the cranberries to the skillet and cook until they start to burst, about 5 minutes. This is a trick I learned from watching my grandmother coax flavors out of simple ingredients with time and patience.
  4. Stir in the broth, and let the mixture simmer for another 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Add the ricotta and Parmesan, stirring until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, adding the reserved pasta water gradually to achieve the desired sauce consistency. The pasta should be well-coated and flavorful.
  7. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and fresh basil, adding a touch of brightness to each bite.

And there you have it — a dish that’s as vibrant as it is comforting, perfect for a cozy night in.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International