Caprese Pasta
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Caprese Pasta, a quick and easy weeknight meal that elevates classic Mediterranean ingredients into a stunning one-dish dinner. Featuring al dente spaghetti tossed with sautéed cherry tomatoes, creamy cubes of fresh mozzarella, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil, this dish is a celebration of freshness in every bite. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweet tanginess, while a touch of red pepper flakes offers optional heat for spice lovers. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe combines simple pantry staples with gourmet flair, making it perfect for busy evenings or casual entertaining. Serve it warm and enjoy the perfect balance of textures and flavors that capture the essence of Italian comfort food!
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Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
Step 3
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their juices. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4
Turn off the heat and toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring, until the sauce lightly coats the pasta.
Step 5
Remove from heat and fold in the cubed mozzarella and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss gently to combine.
Step 6
Divide the pasta among serving plates and drizzle each portion with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Step 7
Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (977.3g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1741.2 |
| Total Fat 95.3g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 39.2g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 162.0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2831.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 149.8g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 10.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 37.2g | |
| Protein 72.5g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1358.4mg | 0% |
| Iron 7.4mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1252.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories