Description

Experience the delightful flavors of Caprese Pasta, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s an easy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal you can whip up in no time.

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)

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices.
Combine the cooked pasta in the skillet with a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Toss until the pasta is lightly coated with the tomato juices and oil.
Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the fresh mozzarella, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta of your choice.
The recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 360
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 30mg