Description
This Caprese Pasta combines vibrant cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil in a delightful dish. It’s simple to make, perfect for a quick dinner, and satisfying comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls or diced fresh mozzarella
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally until they soften and release juices.
- Combine the drained pasta with the tomatoes in the skillet, adding a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta in the juiciness.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh mozzarella, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper gently.
- If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
Ensure to reserve some pasta water as it helps to make the sauce creamy and flavorful.
You can substitute the short pasta with any variety you prefer.
Add extra vegetables like spinach or arugula for more flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg