A Quick, Versatile, and Vegetarian Delight
Jump to RecipeWhen it comes to hosting guests, pasta takes the spotlight as the ultimate versatile dish that never fails to impress. Our visit to the charming south of Italy has inspired us to share a delightful recipe for Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers. Follow these simple steps to create a dish bursting with vibrant flavors from the Mediterranean. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe can be prepared in a flash, making it perfect for those last-minute gatherings. It’s also a great choice for a Lacto-vegetarian meal. Let’s dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean!
Sicilian Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers
4
servings15
minutes15
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 lb. 1 Cherry or grape tomatoes
2 tbsp 2 Olive oil
1.5 tbsp 1.5 Nonpareil capers
2 2 Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
2 2 Fresh mozzarella balls
1 1 bunch of basil (about 1/2 cup when chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmigiano Reggiano to taste
1 lb. 1 Pasta
Directions
- Prep the Sauce. Gather two bowls. Begin by cutting the cherry tomatoes into quarters or halves, depending on their size. Place them in one bowl along with the capers, allowing them to sit for about 5 minutes.
- Create the Mozzarella-Basil Mixture. Dice the mozzarella balls and finely chop the basil. Combine them in a separate bowl, adding salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will infuse your pasta with bursts of creaminess coupled with herbal freshness.
- Cook the Tomato Mix. After the tomatoes have sat with the capers, they will release some water. Drain the tomatoes while keeping the liquid for later use. In a deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the tomato mixture. Cook it for approximately 5 minutes until the tomatoes become tender. If you’re a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, this is the perfect opportunity to add a couple of diced ones to enhance the taste.
- Boil the Pasta. Fill a pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil and then add the pasta. Cook it until it reaches the al dente stage, which varies depending on the pasta type and brand. Remember to follow the package instructions for the perfect al dente texture.
- Bring It All Together. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it while reserving some of the cooking water. Add the pasta to the pan with the tomatoes, and then incorporate the mozzarella-basil mixture. As you toss the ingredients together, you’ll notice the mozzarella starting to melt slightly. If the mixture appears too dry, add some of the drained tomato liquid and a splash of the starchy pasta water. This will create a creamy and cohesive texture.
- Serve and Enjoy. Now it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor! Serve the Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers immediately while it’s still warm. Grate some fresh Parmigiano Reggiano on top. Each bite will delight your taste buds with the perfect harmony of tangy tomatoes, briny capers, and creamy mozzarella.
Notes
- I love sun-dried tomatoes. They add an intense burst of flavor to dishes, providing a rich and umami taste that perfectly complements the bright acidity of the cherry tomatoes in this pasta. Their concentrated flavor adds depth and complexity, elevating the overall taste profile and creating a harmonious balance in every bite.
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With just a handful of readily available ingredients and minimal preparation time, the Sicilian Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers is a true testament to the versatility of pasta. Impress your guests with this vibrant and aromatic dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Prepare yourself to be transported to the sunny streets of southern Italy as you savor the delightful flavors and textures of this quick and easy recipe.
