Harissa Pasta with No-Cook Ricotta Sauce, gluten-free
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
This creamy harissa pasta is the perfect quick dinner for busy weeknights. Made with a no-cook ricotta sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of harissa, it's packed with flavour and ready in just 15 minutes. Tossed through gluten-free strozzapreti or penne, this easy gluten-free pasta recipe is delicious served warm or at room temperature alongside a crisp salad.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready in just 15 minutes
Made with a creamy no-cook ricotta sauce
Naturally vegetarian and made gluten-free
Perfect for busy weeknights
Watch How to Make Harissa Pasta with No-Cook Ricotta Sauce
Ingredient Notes
Harissa Paste
Harissa adds warmth, spice, and depth of flavour. Use less for a milder pasta or add extra if you enjoy a little heat. Always check the label for gluten-free.
Ricotta
Smooth ricotta creates a creamy sauce without needing to cook it. Full-fat ricotta will give the best texture and flavour.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
These add sweetness and richness that balance the spice from the harissa.
Variations
Add shredded chicken or tuna for extra protein.
Stir through baby spinach or rocket before serving.
Swap the almonds for pine nuts or walnuts.
Add slices of roasted capsicum for extra sweetness.
What to Serve with Harissa Pasta
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this harissa pasta spicy?
It has a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. For a milder version, use ½ tablespoon harissa. For extra spice, increase to 2 tablespoons.
Can I use traditional pasta instead of gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely. This sauce works beautifully with any pasta shape, including penne, rigatoni, fusilli or spaghetti.
Can I make the sauce without a food processor?
Yes. Finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, then mix everything together by hand. The sauce will be slightly chunkier but equally delicious.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes. This pasta is delicious served warm, at room temperature or chilled, making it perfect for entertaining, picnics and lunchboxes.
Can I prepare this pasta ahead of time?
Yes. The ricotta sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply cook the gluten-free pasta when ready to serve and toss everything together.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy cold, bring to room temperature or gently reheat before serving.
Harissa Pasta with No-Cook Ricotta Sauce
Serves 3 | Prep: 5 minutes | Cook:10 minutes | Total: 15 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1 packet Rigatoni, Strozzapreti, or Penne pasta, gluten-free
Sauce:
½ cup semi sun-dried tomatoes in oil
200g smooth ricotta
2 garlic cloves, chopped
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon harissa paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3 tablespoons grated parmesan, plus extra
½ cup warm water
Garnish:
10 roasted almonds, roughly chopped
20+ fresh basil leaves
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the Pasta
Cook the gluten-free pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to packet directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the No-Cook Ricotta Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, add the semi sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, ricotta, parmesan, harissa paste, oregano, lemon juice, and warm water to a food processor. Blend until smooth, creamy, and well combined.
3. Toss the Pasta with the Sauce
Transfer the ricotta sauce to a large serving bowl. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Garnish and Serve
Top with the chopped roasted almonds, fresh basil leaves, and extra grated Parmesan. Serve immediately while warm or enjoy at room temperature.
Tip: Adjust the harissa to your liking- half a tablespoon for mild, 2 tablespoons for a serious kick.
Have you tried this recipe?
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Margaret Pahos @CreateCookShare
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