16oz. penne rigate or other cut pasta, use wheat/gluten-free, if needed
1Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
2shallotsfinely diced
2cupscorn kernelsfrozen or fresh
1/2tsp. saltor more to taste
1/4tsp. black pepperor more to taste
1cupfresh basilcoarsely chopped
1cupricotta cheese
1/2cupgrated Parmesan cheese
1/2limejuice only, about 1 Tbsp., or more to taste (optional)
Instructions
Cook the penne according to the package directions in salted water until it is al dente. Before draining the pasta, use a ladle to scoop out about 1 cup of the pasta's cooking water and set it aside.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shallots, and sauté them for about 2 minutes until they are soft.
Add the corn, and sauté it for about 2 more minutes until it is heated through.
Season it with salt and pepper, stir in the basil and remove it from the heat.
Drain the pasta (remember to reserve 1 cup of its water), return it to the pot, and add the corn mixture, ricotta, Parmesan, some or all of the reserved cooking water (depending on how creamy you want it), and lime juice (optional).
Toss to combine, and serve it immediately, or refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
Notes
Slow Cooker Directions: Combine all the ingredients except the pasta, including 1 cup of water (or broth, if preferred) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 - 6 hours or on high for 3 - 4 hours. At serving time, toss with the cooked pasta. (Slow cooker cooking times may vary—Get to know your slow cooker and, if necessary, adjust cooking times accordingly.)Do Ahead or Delegate: Cook the pasta and store tossed with a little oil to prevent sticking (remember to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water), dice the shallots, grate the Parmesan cheese if necessary and refrigerate, juice the lime, or fully prepare and refrigerate the dish.Scramble Flavor Booster: Sauté 3 or 4 slices of bacon with the shallots. Add additional salt and lime juice.Tip: The only difference between penne rigate and regular penne pasta is that penne rigate has ridges or furrows. This allows it to hold a little more sauce. It's also a nice change in texture from regular penne pasta. However, if you can't find penne rigate in your grocery store, regular penne pasta will also yield a delicious result.Video: Watch Jessica make this on Facebook Live.Like this recipe? Check out The Scramble's family-friendly meal plans to see just how simple getting dinner on the table can be!