Description
This Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta (Pasta alla Checca) is a vibrant dish featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Quick to prepare, it’s ideal for a healthy dinner or comforting meal. Enjoy the colorful flavors of this homemade delight!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 large lemon
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- salt and pepper
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- freshly grated parmigiano reggiano or pecorino romano
- extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and garlic. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Stir and set aside to marinate.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt generously. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- Drain the spaghetti and transfer to the bowl with the sauce. Add a couple of spoonfuls of pasta water and toss until well coated. Adjust with more pasta water if needed.
- Tear fresh basil over the pasta and fold in gently. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Serve hot with freshly grated cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
For best flavor, allow the tomato mixture to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste.
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg