Transport your kitchen to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this simple yet incredibly flavorful Linguine Caprese. This elegant pasta dish captures the essence of a European summer, combining the classic Caprese flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic Basil with perfectly cooked linguine. It's a quick and easy meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner but sophisticated enough to impress guests.
What is "Caprese"?
"Caprese" refers to a classic Italian salad originating from the island of Capri. It features a simple combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and sweet Basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag. This recipe takes that beloved flavor profile and transforms it into a warm and satisfying pasta dish.
Yields: 4 servings Prep Time: Just 10 minutes Cook Time: Only 20 minutes Total Time
Ingredients:
- 1 package (9 oz.) BUITONI® Refrigerated Linguine (or other fresh linguine)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 pounds fresh, ripe plum tomatoes, cored and coarsely chopped (or 1 28-ounce can of high-quality whole peeled tomatoes, undrained and chopped)
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup diced fresh mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Start the Pasta Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Sauté the Aromatics: While the water is heating, place the olive oil and chopped garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for about 30 seconds, or just until the garlic begins to sizzle and becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
- Create the Fresh Tomato Sauce: Add the chopped tomatoes and the pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices.
- Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. This will concentrate the flavors. Once thickened, you can keep it on very low heat while the pasta cooks.
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the fresh linguine according to the package directions (fresh pasta typically only takes a few minutes to cook).
- Combine and Finish: Drain the cooked pasta well and immediately toss it with the warm tomato sauce in the skillet. Remove the skillet from the heat and gently stir in the diced fresh mozzarella and the sliced Basil. Toss just enough to coat everything, allowing the cheese to become slightly melty but not completely dissolved.
- Season and Serve: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Basil, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Linguine Caprese:
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, make sure they are ripe and flavorful, as they are the star of the sauce.
- Don't Overcook the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until it's fragrant. Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter.
- Fresh Mozzarella is Key: Use fresh mozzarella (the kind packed in water) for the best creamy, melty texture.
- Add Basil at the End: Stir in the fresh Basil just before serving to preserve its bright, aromatic flavor.
This Linguine Caprese recipe is a perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create an incredibly delicious and elegant meal. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a dish that channels the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Italian coast, making any meal feel like a special occasion.