Caprese Penne is a quick and easy pasta dish inspired by the flavors of the classic Caprese salad. This recipe features fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a balsamic glaze.
Hello, friend! Get ready to experience a taste of Italy with this simple yet delicious Caprese Penne recipe. This dish takes the fresh, vibrant flavors of a Caprese salad and combines them with the deliciousness of penne pasta.
Imagine juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze all coming together in perfect harmony.
It’s a light and refreshing meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful dinner on a warm evening. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Utensils You Need:
Gather these tools to create this delicious meal:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
The Recipe
Caprese Penne
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed or torn into small pieces
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, olive oil, balsamic glaze, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
- If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can use regular tomatoes, diced.
- For a more intense flavor, you can use fresh buffalo mozzarella instead of regular mozzarella.
- If you prefer a warm salad, you can quickly sauté the tomatoes in the olive oil before adding the remaining ingredients.
Cook method: Stovetop
Season: Spring, Summer
Alternative Ingredients:
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, no worries! You can swap them out for the alternatives below:
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Penne pasta | Any other pasta shape, such as rotini or farfalle |
| Cherry tomatoes | Roma tomatoes, diced |
| Fresh mozzarella | Shredded mozzarella cheese |
| Fresh basil | Dried basil or pesto sauce |
| Balsamic glaze | Balsamic vinegar |
What to Serve with Caprese Penne:
You can pair this delicious Caprese Penne with the following:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette or a balsamic reduction.
- Crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce.
- A glass of chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as the pasta may become soggy if it sits for too long. However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! You can use any cheese that melts well, such as provolone, burrata, or even feta.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can use a vegan mozzarella alternative and substitute the balsamic glaze with a vegan balsamic reduction or glaze.
How do I store leftover pasta?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
