17 Apr 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
7 tomatoes
1/2 cup olive oil
1 dash black pepper
8 oz low moisture mozzarella cheese
1 garlic clove
16 oz whole-wheat pasta
2 tbsp basil
1 dash salt
Whole-wheat pasta with roasted tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a delightful, healthy dish that combines the earthy flavors of whole grains with the fresh, vibrant tastes of summer. This recipe pairs roasted tomatoes with creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil to create a simple yet delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Wash and dry the tomatoes.
- Cut the tomatoes into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
- Arrange the tomato pieces on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Roast the Tomatoes:
- Drizzle the tomatoes with 1/4 cup of olive oil.
- Sprinkle a dash of salt and pepper over the tomatoes.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook the Pasta:
While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the whole-wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
5. Prepare the Mozzarella and Garlic:
- While the pasta is cooking, cut the mozzarella cheese into small cubes.
- Mince the garlic clove.
6. Combine Ingredients:
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the roasted tomatoes to the skillet along with any juices from the baking sheet.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
- If the mixture seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Add the mozzarella cubes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese begins to melt.
7. Finish with Basil:
- Chop the basil leaves.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped basil.
8. Serve:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates.
- Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Whole-Wheat Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil!
Tips:
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
- Be sure to cook the whole-wheat pasta until just al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Use fresh basil for the most vibrant flavor. Tear or chiffonade the basil leaves rather than chopping them to keep their flavor intact.
- For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the finished dish just before serving.
- Roast the garlic along with the tomatoes for a sweeter, mellower garlic flavor that blends beautifully with the dish.
This whole-wheat pasta dish with roasted tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a nutritious and flavorful option for your next meal. With its combination of wholesome ingredients and fresh tastes, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Serve it with a side salad and a slice of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.