There’s something truly special about cooking for loved ones, especially when they’ve traveled from afar. My niece, visiting from California, grew up just a few hundred feet from my home, and having her back always brings joy and nostalgia. She has always loved my mushroom and chicken pasta, so I wanted to make it for her—but with a twist. Instead of the usual cream, I opted for ricotta to create a rich yet lighter sauce. The result? A luscious, flavor-packed pasta dish perfect for feeding a crowd.