Recipe: Rigatoni with Tomatoes, Ricotta & Walnuts

March 20, 2009 — -- It's the first day of spring and Rocco Dispirito's fresh recipes are a great way to celebrate. Put away the stews and chowders that have helped keep you warm during the winter months in favor of lighter fare for a warmer season.

Get his recipes below.

Rigatoni is one of the biggest, baddest, toothiest pastas, so it needs to be served with a hearty, big-flavored sauce substantial enough to stand up to it. The ricotta-and-walnut combination in this recipe makes a perfect match.

1. Cook rigatoni in a stockpot of boiling salted water according to package directions.

2. Empty pasta sauce into a large microwaveable bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Microwave on high until hot, about 3 minutes.

3. Add cooked rigatoni, ricotta, walnuts, olive oil, parsley, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. Season to taste with salt and pepper; toss to combine and serve.

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