Description
This Caprese Pasta offers an irresistible combination of flavors with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick, healthy dinner.
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 pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is lightly coated in the tomato juices and oil.
- Remove the pan from heat and gently stir in the fresh mozzarella, basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese if using and drizzle with a little balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, add more basil or use heirloom tomatoes.
Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein.
The balsamic glaze can be adjusted according to personal preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg