Caprese Pasta
Ready to transform your Caprese Pasta into a culinary masterpiece? Explore 5 creative ways to enhance this classic dish with fresh ingredients. Discover deliciousness! Did you know that a simple tweak to your Caprese Pasta recipe can boost its nutritional value by up to 30%? Let's unlock the potential of this timeless favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or farfalle work well
- 2 large ripe tomatoes diced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Step 2: Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pro Tip: Don't let the garlic brown; this can result in a bitter taste.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Stir in the diced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 4: Add Flavor & Adjust Consistency: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Personalized Tip: For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of ricotta cheese at this stage.
- Step 5: Serve Immediately: Serve the Caprese Pasta immediately. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if desired.
Notes
These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.