Pasta caprice
Delight in the flavors of Italy with our easy Pasta Caprese recipe. Featuring tender pasta, vibrant canned tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella cheese, this dish brings a taste of summer to your table in just a few simple steps.
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
2 oz pasta1 cup canned tomatoes
1 cup basil leaves
1 oz mozzarella cheese
Pasta Caprese is a delightful and easy-to-make dish inspired by the traditional Caprese salad from Italy. Combining fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella with perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite. It's a fantastic option for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch.
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-12 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. If using olive oil and garlic, add the olive oil to the skillet and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add the canned tomatoes to the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the pasta, stirring gently to distribute evenly.
- Add the mozzarella cheese cubes or shreds to the pasta and mix. The cheese will slightly melt from the heat of the pasta, creating a deliciously creamy texture.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Garnish with a few whole basil leaves for a fresh touch.
- Serve immediately while the pasta is warm and the cheese is gooey. Pair it with crusty bread and a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor, or substitute with freshly chopped ripe tomatoes for an even fresher taste.
- Tear the basil leaves by hand rather than chopping them to prevent bruising and to release more aroma.
- Use fresh mozzarella cheese for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
- Cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with other ingredients.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.
Pasta Caprese is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together the flavors of fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it's an ideal recipe for those who love tasty and quick meals. Serve it warm for a comforting dinner or enjoy it cold as a refreshing pasta salad. Buon appetito!
Nutrition per serving
1 ServingsCalories 330kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 8g
Fat 6g
More recipes
Teriyaki salmon fillets
Made with a blend of sugar, soy sauce, and a special spice mix, and complemented by fresh shallots, this 2 lb salmon dish delivers a delicious and easy-to-make gourmet experience for any meal.
12 May 2025Slow cooker braised steak and onions
Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it's the perfect dish for any occasion.
04 May 2025Ricotta quiche with prosciutto and semi-dried tomatoes
Discover the perfect balance of texture and taste in every bite.
03 May 2025Chickpea curry
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep! #chickpeacurry #vegandinner #easyrecipes.
07 Apr 2025Grilled salmon patties
Enjoy this easy-to-make, nutritious meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner.
30 Nov 2025Chicken chili with vegetables and beans
This balanced, protein-packed meal is a delicious twist on traditional chili, perfect for cozy dinners or game day gatherings.
15 Sep 2025