Description

This Caprese Pasta offers a delightful combination of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. With easy preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for a quick dinner or a healthy meal option. Enjoy this homemade recipe any day of the week!

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. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 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 begin to soften and release some of their juices.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Toss together until the pasta is lightly coated in the tomato juices and oil.
Remove 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 balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, use high-quality balsamic vinegar.
Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 390
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 40mg