Pasta with Garden Tomatoes and Fresh Mozzarella

Experience the ultimate harmony of summer flavors with this Pasta with Garden Tomatoes and Fresh Mozzarella recipe, a perfect celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, this easy 30-minute dish strikes a beautiful balance between simplicity and gourmet appeal. The garlic-infused olive oil creates a light yet flavorful base, while optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick. Topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, this vibrant pasta is as comforting as it is elegant. Perfect for weeknight dinners or al fresco gatherings, it’s a must-try for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
• 2 cups Cherry tomatoes (or other garden tomatoes)
• 8 ounces Fresh mozzarella
• 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 units Garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Freshly ground black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoons Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 0.25 cups Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

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 until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3

Halve the cherry tomatoes (or dice larger tomatoes) and add them to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

Step 4

Season the tomatoes with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and let simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 5

Cut the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces or leave them whole, depending on preference.

Step 6

Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss to coat the pasta in the tomato mixture, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too dry.

Step 7

Remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the fresh mozzarella and basil leaves. The mozzarella will begin to soften slightly from the residual heat.

Step 8

Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, before serving.

Step 9

Serve immediately and enjoy a vibrant, fresh-tasting pasta dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1096.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1907.4

Total Fat 107.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 43.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.7g
Cholesterol 195.0mg	0%
Sodium 4875.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 136.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.4g	0%
Total Sugars 16.5g
Protein 99.7g	0%

Vitamin D 60.1IU	0%
Calcium 2333.0mg	0%
Iron 6.0mg	0%
Potassium 1508.3mg	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: 50.7%

Protein: 20.8%

Carbs: 28.5%