Margherita Pasta

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Margherita Pasta, a quick and easy weeknight dinner inspired by the classic Italian Margherita pizza. This recipe showcases perfectly al dente spaghetti or linguine tossed with juicy, sautéed cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a touch of red chili flakes for an irresistible kick. Fresh mozzarella melts gently into the dish, creating a luscious, creamy texture, while aromatic basil leaves add a burst of freshness. Finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and optional parmesan for extra richness, this 30-minute pasta dish is a comfort food favorite that brings a taste of Italy to your table. Perfect for a vegetarian main course, it’s a simple yet elegant meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams spaghetti or linguine
• 300 grams ripe cherry tomatoes
• 200 grams fresh mozzarella
• 3 pieces garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 15 leaves fresh basil leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 50 grams parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Add the garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, but not burned.

Step 4

Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the skillet. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

Step 5

Season the tomato mixture with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 6

Tear the fresh mozzarella into small chunks and set aside. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces as well.

Step 7

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and toss to combine. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, until a silky sauce forms.

Step 8

Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the mozzarella chunks and basil leaves. The heat from the pasta will slightly melt the mozzarella for a creamy texture.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt or pepper.

Step 10

Serve immediately, garnished with grated parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1018.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1867.6

Total Fat 101.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 39.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.5g
Cholesterol 170mg	0%
Sodium 4538.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 150.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.7g	0%
Total Sugars 13.7g
Protein 93.3g	0%

Vitamin D 52IU	0%
Calcium 2026.8mg	0%
Iron 5.8mg	0%
Potassium 1233.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.3%

Protein: 19.8%

Carbs: 31.9%