Description
Caprese Pasta combines the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Quick and delightful, this meal is sure to please everyone!
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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release juices.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the tomatoes in the skillet and add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Toss until the pasta is coated in the juices and oil.
- Remove from heat and gently mix in fresh mozzarella, basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle balsamic glaze before serving.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
You can adjust the amount of salt and pepper based on your taste preference.
For a vegetarian option, skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
Fresh tomatoes can be replaced by canned diced tomatoes if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg