Indulge your taste buds with a vibrant dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine—Roasted Tomato Fresh Mozzarella Pasta! This delightful recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to a sun-drenched terrace in Tuscany. With juicy roasted tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and al dente pasta, every bite is a celebration of freshness and simplicity. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta of choice
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, toss halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Spread the seasoned tomatoes evenly on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side up.
- Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they are softened, slightly caramelized, and begin to burst. The edges should look slightly charred and concentrated in color.
- While tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta type.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
- Add the roasted tomatoes to the pasta, gently tossing to combine. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Tear the fresh mozzarella into smaller pieces and fold into the warm pasta. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish generously with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while the pasta is warm and the mozzarella is soft and slightly melted.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta works, opt for shapes that hold sauce well, like fusilli or penne, to maximize flavor in every bite.
- Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect caramelization!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and basil make all the difference. Look for high-quality mozzarella, preferably packed in water, for a creamier texture.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you find the pasta too dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This will help create a light, flavorful sauce.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil isn’t just for decoration; it adds a burst of flavor! Tear the leaves instead of chopping to release more aroma and taste.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. The mozzarella will melt beautifully when served warm, so don’t let it sit for too long before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 602kcal
Carbohydrates: 89g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 18mg
