Classic Margherita Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne works well)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bunch of fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded or diced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to break down, stirring occasionally.
- Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato mixture. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta.
- Add the torn basil leaves and mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the basil is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar with the tomatoes.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top before serving.
- Use high-quality olive oil and fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Nutrition Information:
Approximately 521 calories per serving. Rich in carbohydrates and contains calcium and vitamins from tomatoes, basil, and cheese.
There you have it—a quick and tasty Margherita Pasta that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re in the mood for something light and fresh. The simplicity of ingredients allows each flavor to shine through, creating a delightful meal that’s bound to impress family and friends alike!