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Orecchiette with Salsa Cruda and Ricotta

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant orecchiette with salsa cruda and ricotta is the ultimate celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. By using a 'salsa cruda'—or raw sauce—you allow the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the aromatic punch of fresh basil to lead the dish, creating a bright and fragrant coating for the pasta. It is an effortlessly elegant vegetarian meal that requires minimal time at the hob, making it a perfect choice for warm evenings when you want maximum flavour with very little fuss.

As a nutritious and light dinner option, this pasta dish relies on the quality of its produce, so try to use the ripest tomatoes available. The addition of cool, creamy ricotta provides a velvety contrast to the zesty salsa, while the orecchiette 'little ears' are the ideal shape for scooping up the juices. Serve it shared from a large platter for a relaxed, Mediterranean-inspired midweek feast.

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Ingredients for Orecchiette with Salsa Cruda and Ricotta

  • 1 medium shallot, minced

  • 2 small garlic cloves, forced through a garlic press

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 675g tomatoes, chopped

  • 1/4 teaspoons hot red-pepper flakes

  • 1/3 cup coarsely chopped basil

  • 450g dried orecchiette

  • 3/4 cup ricotta (preferably fresh)

  • Small basil leaves

How to make Orecchiette with Salsa Cruda and Ricotta

Stir together all ingredients except pasta and ricotta in a large bowl with 3/4 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoons pepper. Let stand, stirring occasionally, 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook orecchiette in a pasta pot of boiling salted water (3 tablespoons salt for 6 qt water) until al dente.

Drain pasta and toss with tomato salsa. Season with salt and pepper and dollop with ricotta.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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