Fusilli Alla Caprese: Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Leaves
Description:
Fusilli Alla Caprese is a delightful Italian dish that captures the essence of fresh, simple ingredients. The name might sound fancy, but it’s essentially a quick and easy pasta dish prepared with juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, creamy mozzarella, and the richness of extra virgin olive oil. With a hint of garlic and freshly ground black pepper, this dish brings a burst of flavor that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. It’s a healthy, vegetarian meal that can be prepared in just a few minutes, offering a taste of Italy in every bite!
Cuisine:
Italian
Course:
Dinner
Diet:
Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (Fusilli) | 200 grams |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Salt | As required |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (freshly ground) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Basil leaves (roughly torn) | A few |
| Mozzarella cheese (grated) | 1 cup |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water and cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions, or until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later use. -
Prepare the Sauce:
In a wide pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about two minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. -
Add the Tomatoes:
Toss the cherry tomatoes into the pan, adding salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow the tomatoes to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices. Use the back of a ladle or spoon to mash the tomatoes, creating a chunky, rustic sauce. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked fusilli pasta to the pan with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the tomato sauce. If the sauce seems a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to bring it to the desired consistency. -
Finishing Touches:
Tear the basil leaves roughly and sprinkle them over the pasta. Add the grated mozzarella cheese and toss everything again until the cheese starts to melt, creating a creamy texture. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Fusilli Alla Caprese immediately while it’s warm. For an extra Italian touch, you can enjoy it alongside a classic Pizza Margherita for a truly delightful Italian dinner experience.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy Fusilli Alla Caprese on its own or pair it with a light, fresh salad.
- For an authentic Italian experience, serve with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor, if desired.
Fusilli Alla Caprese is a simple yet flavorful dish that celebrates the freshness of summer ingredients. The combination of tender pasta, sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a harmony of flavors that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. Perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!
