Cherry Tomato Mozzarella Pasta
A delightful pasta dish with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, perfect for summer.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 Large skillet for combining ingredients
- 1 Colander for draining pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or penne
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves torn
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Seasonings
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces. Cut the mozzarella balls into halves and set aside.
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and mozzarella balls to the skillet. Stir gently to combine.
- Add the torn basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined and serve immediately.
Serving
- Garnish with additional basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust seasonings to taste.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta if needed. Try sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
How to Serve: Best served immediately while warm.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare ingredients in advance to save time.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta if needed. Try sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
How to Serve: Best served immediately while warm.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare ingredients in advance to save time.