This mozzarella pasta is warm, cheesy, and full of flavor. With fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, it’s a simple dish that’s perfect for any meal—whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with others.
Why We Love This Mozzarella Pasta Recipe
One of the main reasons people adore this mozzarella pasta recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it belongs in a fine dining restaurant. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients not only make it visually appealing but also add to the overall dining experience.
Furthermore, this recipe allows you the freedom to personalize it based on your taste preferences. Add more vegetables, toss in your favorite herbs, or adjust the level of garlic to suit your palate. The essence of this mozzarella pasta lies in its versatility, making it a hit among all ages.
Another appealing aspect is the short cooking time. Within a mere 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. This makes it ideal for busy individuals who crave home-cooked simplicity without sacrificing flavor.
Let’s explore what you will need to create this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients about Mozzarella Pasta
To prepare mozzarella pasta, you’re going to need a few key ingredients that come together beautifully.
- 250 g (2 cups) cherry tomatoes
- 50 g (1/4 cup) butter
- 50 g (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil
- 10 g (3/4 tablespoon) chopped or minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 100 g (3 1/2 oz) dried pasta or 200 g fresh pasta
- 125 g (4 1/2 oz) fresh mozzarella
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
These ingredients are not only simple but also full of flavor, making this dish a delightful feast for your senses.
How to Make Mozzarella Pasta Directions
Creating this mozzarella pasta dish is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these easy steps to bring the flavors to life.
Heat the Cooking Oils: In a large pan over medium heat, combine the extra virgin olive oil and butter. The butter adds a lovely richness while the olive oil enhances the flavor.
Sauté Tomatoes and Garlic: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the heated pan, followed by the chopped garlic and salt. Cook this mixture for about 8 to 10 minutes. You want the tomatoes to burst, releasing their sweet juices, while the garlic softens to fill the air with a mouthwatering aroma.
Season the Sauce: Once the tomatoes have burst, sprinkle in the teaspoon of sugar. This helps to balance the acidity from the tomatoes, giving your sauce depth and richness.
Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, begin boiling your chosen pasta in salted water. If you’re using fresh pasta, it will typically only need about 2 to 3 minutes to cook. For dried pasta, follow the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta but remember to reserve a small mug of the pasta water. This water is crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Add the drained pasta to the pan with the tomato sauce, tossing it gently to coat the noodles evenly. If the mixture seems too dry, add a spoonful of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Add Fresh Parsley: Fold in the chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, enhancing both the flavor and visual appeal of the dish.
Plate with Mozzarella: Serve the pasta in bowls, breaking fresh mozzarella over the top. The warm pasta will slightly melt the mozzarella, creating a creamy texture.
Finish and Enjoy: Drizzle a touch of olive oil over each serving and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper before indulging in your delicious creation.
With just these steps, you have crafted a tasty, comforting meal that’s sure to please anyone at your table.
How to Serve Mozzarella Pasta
When it comes to serving mozzarella pasta, presentation can elevate your dining experience. Consider these simple ideas to make your dish truly stand out.
Start by choosing a lovely bowl or plate – the right dish can make your pasta look even more inviting. Serve the pasta hot and arrange it attractively. You might want to layer the pasta, ensuring the fresh mozzarella is spread evenly on top.
To add an extra touch, accompany your dish with crusty bread. This is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate, enhancing every bite of your meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for a colorful contrast that balances flavors nicely.
Don’t forget your personal touch – a sprinkle of more fresh parsley or a few chili flakes can make it look and taste even better. Enjoy this delightful dish with friends or family, and let the comforting flavors bring everyone together.
Expert Tips: Mozzarella Pasta
As with any recipe, a few handy tips can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish’s flavor.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The essence of this mozzarella pasta recipe lies in the quality of its ingredients. Opt for fresh mozzarella and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add more according to your taste. Garlic can be a star player in this dish, providing aromatic depth.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the cherry tomatoes to burst fully, bringing out their natural sweetness. Patience during this step truly pays off in flavor.
- Pasta Cooking Time: Always taste your pasta a minute or two before the end of the suggested cooking time. This will ensure you have the perfect al dente bite.
- Experiment with Cheeses: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, consider substituting it with another cheese. Parmesan, for example, adds a different flavor profile.
Taking these tips into account will elevate your experience and help you master this delightful dish.
How to Store Mozzarella Pasta
If you find yourself with leftover mozzarella pasta, storing it properly is vital to maintain its freshness. To store your pasta, place it in a covered container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, it can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or olive oil to ensure it doesn’t dry out during reheating.
If you’re looking to store it for longer, consider freezing it. Portion the pasta into airtight containers, leaving space for expansion, and store them in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to eat, and then gently reheat.
Variation of Mozzarella Pasta
This mozzarella pasta recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to get creative with add-ins and variations. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in additional vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. It’s a great way to make the dish even healthier and more colorful.
- Protein Options: Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or legumes for extra protein. This will make the meal heartier and more satisfying.
- Herb Swaps: While parsley adds a fresh element, you can also experiment with basil, oregano, or thyme for a different herbaceous profile that complements the flavors.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a kick of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish significantly.
These variations ensure that you can enjoy mozzarella pasta in different ways, keeping the dish exciting each time you prepare it.
FAQ about Mozzarella Pasta
How long can I keep mozzarella pasta in the refrigerator?
You can store mozzarella pasta in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Make sure it’s in a properly sealed container to keep it fresh.
Can I use dried pasta instead of fresh pasta for this recipe?
Yes! While fresh pasta cooks quickly, dried pasta works equally well. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the best results.
What kind of mozzarella should I use?
For the best results, opt for fresh mozzarella. It melts beautifully and gives the dish a lovely creaminess.
Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is recommended for its creaminess, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like ricotta or even goat cheese for a unique taste experience.
How can I make this vegan-friendly?
To make a vegan version of mozzarella pasta, substitute dairy butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Consider using nutritional yeast to mimic cheesy flavors.
Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 250 g cherry tomatoes
- 50 g butter
- 50 g extra virgin olive oil
- 10 g chopped or minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For the Pasta
- 100 g dried pasta or 200 g fresh pasta
- 125 g fresh mozzarella
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Instructions
Cooking Preparation
- In a large pan over medium heat, combine the extra virgin olive oil and butter.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan, followed by the chopped garlic and salt. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the tomatoes burst.
- Once the tomatoes have burst, sprinkle in the teaspoon of sugar.
- While the sauce simmers, boil your chosen pasta in salted water according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and reserve a small mug of the pasta water. Toss the drained pasta with the tomato sauce in the pan.
- Fold in the chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley.
- Serve the pasta in bowls, breaking fresh mozzarella over the top.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper before serving.