Colorful Caprese Cherry Tomato Pasta with Mozzarella Pearls
Discover a vibrant Caprese Cherry Tomato Pasta with mozzarella pearls, perfect for a refreshing Italian-inspired meal.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 Large skillet for cooking tomatoes
- 1 Mixing Bowl for assembling ingredients
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves torn
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes. Mince the garlic cloves and tear the basil leaves into small pieces. Set aside mozzarella pearls.
Cooking
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften.
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine and heat through.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in mozzarella pearls and torn basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Transfer the pasta to a serving platter and enjoy while warm, or allow it to cool for a pasta salad experience.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold as a salad.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute mozzarella pearls with diced fresh mozzarella if unavailable.
How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce in advance and mix with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute mozzarella pearls with diced fresh mozzarella if unavailable.
How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce in advance and mix with freshly cooked pasta before serving.