Skip to main content

Cavatappi with Tomatoes, Rocket, and Ricotta

This vibrant cavatappi with tomatoes, rocket and ricotta is the ultimate expression of simple, Mediterranean-inspired cooking. By combining fresh, chopped tomatoes with garlic and a hint of chilli, you create a bright, uncooked sauce that relies on the residual heat of the pasta to release its natural juices. The peppery notes of the rocket provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the fruit, making this a refreshing choice for a light summer lunch or a quick evening meal.

As a nutritious vegetarian dish, this recipe is as versatile as it is flavourful. The corkscrew shape of the cavatappi is ideal for catching the light olive oil sauce, while the dollops of creamy ricotta add a luxurious finish. For the best results, use the finest extra-virgin olive oil you can find and ensure the tomatoes are perfectly ripe and at room temperature before you begin.

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Cavatappi with Tomatoes, Rocket, and Ricotta

  • 2 large tomatoes, cored, roughly chopped (about 600g )

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil, plus more to taste

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste

  • 450g cavatappi (or other short pasta)

  • 6 cups rocket, coarsely chopped

  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • 110g ricotta

Combine tomatoes, garlic, red pepper flakes, 60ml oil, and 1 teaspoon salt in a large bowl.

Cook cavatappi in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain pasta, reserving 240ml pasta cooking liquid, and add to tomato mixture. Stir vigorously and add pasta cooking liquid and oil as needed to fully coat. Stir in rocket and black pepper and season with salt.

Transfer pasta to a serving bowl or platter and dollop with ricotta. Serve immediately.

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.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.