Quick Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Quick Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella, a breezy 25-minute recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or leisurely lunches. This dish combines al dente spaghetti with juicy, sautéed cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a touch of heat from optional red pepper flakes. Tossed with fresh basil and creamy cubes of mozzarella that gently melt into the pasta, every bite is a delightful blend of freshness and comfort. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients like olive oil and simple seasonings, this pasta recipe is a go-to for anyone craving a quick yet satisfying Italian-inspired meal. Perfect for serving to four and easily customizable, it's your secret weapon for a gourmet meal in a flash.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
Season the tomato mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the tomato mixture.
Remove the skillet from heat. Gently stir in the torn basil leaves and cubed fresh mozzarella, allowing the cheese to slightly melt.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately and garnish with additional basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
431 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.4 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.8 g | 49% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 901 mg | 39% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 36.0 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.7 g | ||
| Protein | 19.0 g | 38% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 358 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 512 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
