Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner? Look no further! This fresh mozzarella pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't get much simpler than this!
Ingredients: You'll only need a handful!
This recipe relies on the quality of its ingredients, so opt for good quality fresh mozzarella.
- 1 pound pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or your favorite shape)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
Instructions: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe is designed to be quick and straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Combine and simmer: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Stir in the fresh mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and basil. Toss gently to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. If using sun-dried tomatoes, add them along with the mozzarella.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture and flavor. It should be firm to the bite.
- Use good quality ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and fresh basil really make a difference in the taste of this dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Some may prefer more or less garlic.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic.
Variations: Beyond the Basics
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be delicious additions to this pasta dish.
- Vegetarian delight: Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant add color and flavor.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon zest: A little lemon zest brightens up the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This fresh mozzarella pasta recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable dish. Enjoy!