Veggie Ricotta Pasta Toss

Veggies...again!  Get 'em however you can!  Like in this yummy dish that gets a thumbs up from my family and goes in the "make again" pile.  Hold the garlic bread!


Veggie Ricotta Pasta Toss
8 ounces dried whole wheat or whole-grain penne pasta
2 1/2 cups broccoli florets
1 1/2 cups asparagus or green beans cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup light ricotta cheese
1/4 cup snipped fresh basil or 1 tablespoon dried basil, crushed
4 teaspoons snipped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
4 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 large ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or Romano cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting any oil or salt. 

Add broccoli florets and asparagus or green beans during the last 3 minutes of cooking; drain.

In a large serving bowl, combine ricotta cheese, basil, thyme, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and freshly ground pepper. 

Add cooked pasta and vegetables to ricotta mixture. Add chopped tomatoes. Toss to combine. Sprinkle each serving with grated cheese; serve immediately.

This is also really yummy with other veggies or a healthy chicken sausage to give it a little zip.