My Favorite Pasta
A fresh and vibrant pasta dish combining ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil, perfect for light summer dinners or casual gatherings with bright, flavorful notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped tomatoes, mozzarella strips, olive oil, and red wine vinegar in a bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let stand at room temperature for about one hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in chopped basil.
- Cook penne pasta al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and gently toss with the tomato mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using burrata instead of mozzarella. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned San Marzano tomatoes can be a great substitute. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the warm tomato mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish is delightful served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a fresh arugula salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Easy Manicotti With Cheese as part of a larger Italian feast. For an extra touch, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent it from drying out. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pasta mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Favorite Pasta contains roughly 541 calories, with 23g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (116% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contributes 33g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato mixture and cook the pasta a few hours in advance. Just combine them right before serving to ensure the pasta remains al dente. This dish tastes great when the flavors have had time to meld, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
What can I substitute for fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn't available, you can use dried basil in a pinch, though the flavor will be less vibrant. Use about one teaspoon of dried basil for each tablespoon of fresh. Alternatively, try fresh parsley or arugula for a different but delicious herbaceous note.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients other than cheese. It's a great option for those looking for hearty vegetarian recipes, especially when complemented with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).