Description
A fresh and flavorful pasta salad that combines creamy sauce with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 2 cups heirloom, cherry, or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or sliced mozzarella log
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente, reserving about a cup of cooking water before draining.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant for about 1 minute.
- Make It Creamy: Reduce heat, add heavy cream (or Greek yogurt), and gradually mix in the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Add the Pasta: Toss drained pasta into the skillet and stir until evenly coated.
- Include the Fresh Ingredients: Off the heat, gently fold in tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Season It Up: Add lemon juice, basil, salt, and pepper, tossing once more to combine.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for a refreshing dish.
Notes
Reserve some pasta water for a silky sauce. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: caprese, pasta salad, creamy, tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, quick recipe