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Here is a delightful and flavorful pasta dish that brings together the freshness of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella pearls.

This recipe is a delicious twist on the classic Farfalle with Tomato and Basil, adding a creamy and cheesy element. With its vibrant colors and harmonious flavors, this dish is sure to please!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 ounces farfalle pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes or equal amount of fresh cherry tomatoes
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Add the cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil and mozzarella pearls. The residual heat will melt the mozzarella slightly, creating a creamy and cheesy texture.

Notes

Since this recipe relies on the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients, it’s important to choose high-quality tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and fresh mozzarella pearls. Once you’ve added the cooked pasta to the skillet, let it simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce and ensures each bite is well-coated and flavorful. For the best taste and texture, serve this dish immediately after cooking. The mozzarella pearls will be slightly melted, creating a creamy and delicious sauce. Delaying the serving time may cause the cheese to become too stringy or lose its creamy texture. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition