Fusilli Alla Caprese: A Delightful Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Leaves
Fusilli alla Caprese brings together the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer, making it the perfect dish for any Italian-inspired dinner. With its tender fusilli pasta tossed in a savory sauce of juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil leaves, this dish embodies the true spirit of classic Italian cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant weekend dinner, this recipe will impress and satisfy. Paired with a simple, refreshing mozzarella cheese, this pasta is an absolute winner.
Ingredients for Fusilli Alla Caprese
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fusilli pasta | 200 grams |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Whole black peppercorns (freshly ground) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh basil leaves | A few leaves |
| Mozzarella cheese (grated) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 60 grams |
| Fat | 20 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 7 grams |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Instructions to Make Fusilli Alla Caprese
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Cook the Fusilli: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes for al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, making sure to reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later use.
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Prepare the Tomato Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant.
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Cook the Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan with the garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow the tomatoes to cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and break down into a chunky sauce. Use the back of your spoon or a ladle to press the tomatoes and help them release their juices.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fusilli to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss the pasta thoroughly to coat it in the sauce, ensuring that every spiral of fusilli is covered with the rich, tangy tomato mixture.
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Add Fresh Herbs and Cheese: Tear a few fresh basil leaves and toss them into the pasta, along with the grated mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese begins to melt and become creamy, creating a luscious texture.
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Adjust the Consistency: If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
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Serve: Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, your Fusilli alla Caprese is ready to be served. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a classic Pizza Margherita for an extra dose of Italian comfort.
Serving Suggestions
Fusilli alla Caprese is a versatile and light dish, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. You can serve it as a stand-alone main course for a quick dinner or pair it with an Italian salad or garlic bread. To enhance the meal, consider serving with a chilled glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
For a complete Italian-themed dinner, add a dessert like Tiramisu or Panna Cotta to finish off the meal in the most delicious way possible.
Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of Fusilli alla Caprese as it transports you straight to the heart of Italy with every bite. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together in a truly magical way. Buon appetito!
