Caprese Penne Summer Pasta – Fresh and Quick
Celebrate summer with this vibrant and delicious Caprese Penne Summer Pasta! This quick and refreshing dish is perfect for busy weeknights and showcases the beautiful flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. With minimal prep time, you can indulge in a gourmet meal without the hassle.
Celebrate summer with this vibrant and delicious Caprese Penne Summer Pasta! This quick and refreshing dish is perfect for busy weeknights and showcases the beautiful flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. With minimal prep time, you can indulge in a gourmet meal without the hassle.
Caprese Penne Summer Pasta
- Unique blend of fresh ingredients for a summer delight.
- Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a quick meal.
- Customizable to suit dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make
To start, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, prepare your fresh ingredients: halve the cherry tomatoes and cube the mozzarella. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add in the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. Toss in the chopped basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, stirring gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for a fresh and delicious meal!
Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Make-Ahead
This dish is great for meal prep! Prepare everything up to the mixing step and store it in the refrigerator. Simply mix everything together just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
Storing
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
For best results, it’s not recommended to freeze this pasta as the fresh ingredients may not retain their quality once thawed.
Reheating
You can gently reheat the pasta in a microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of olive oil to keep it moist and fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Caprese Penne Summer Pasta alongside a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete summer meal. It also makes a fabulous dish for potlucks and gatherings.
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Related Recipes
- Pesto Zucchini Noodles
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Fresh Caprese Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Prepare ingredients
Halve the cherry tomatoes and cube the mozzarella.
Drain pasta
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and place it in a large mixing bowl.
Add tomatoes and mozzarella
Add in the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella.
Toss with basil, oil, and vinegar
Toss in the chopped basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, stirring gently to combine.
Season
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve immediately for a fresh and delicious meal!
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead and mix everything together just before serving to keep the basil vibrant and the mozzarella from getting soggy.
Can I add protein?
Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp works nicely with this Caprese pasta.
Can this be made vegetarian or dairy-free?
The recipe as written is vegetarian. To make it vegan, omit the mozzarella or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
What goes well with this dish?
A simple green salad and a glass of white wine pair beautifully with this pasta.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Re-toss before serving.
