Linguine Caprese

Linguine Caprese is a delightful and refreshing dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer. With ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella, this recipe is a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and simple preparation.

Ideal for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, it captures the essence of Italian cuisine while allowing the natural flavors to shine through. Enjoy this dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an extra touch of indulgence!

Linguine Caprese

Ingredients

8 ounces linguine

2 lbs ripe tomatoes (see notes for recommendations)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, preferably white

1/4 cup chiffonade of fresh basil

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

6 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (see notes for substitutions)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the linguine.

Remove seeds and dice the tomatoes into 1/2-inch pieces (no need to peel). Place them in a large bowl and season with salt and pepper.

Drizzle the tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and balsamic vinegar, mixing well. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to release their juices, then stir in the basil and parsley.

Cook the linguine according to package directions, reserving 4 tablespoons of the cooking water before draining.

Transfer the cooked linguine to a large bowl and drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and about half of the reserved cooking water. Toss to combine.

Add the tomato mixture, basil, parsley, and fresh mozzarella pearls, mixing thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve on a platter or in individual bowls, garnishing with extra parsley and basil if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Notes:

Tomato Selection: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Varieties like heirloom, Roma, or vine-ripened are excellent choices. If tomatoes are out of season, consider using cherry or grape tomatoes.

Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil is key to this recipe. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with a small amount of dried basil, but the flavor will be different. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch, but can be omitted if necessary.

Mozzarella Substitutions: If fresh mozzarella pearls are unavailable, you can use diced fresh mozzarella or even burrata for a creamier texture.

Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook the linguine al dente for the best texture. Remember to reserve some cooking water; it helps to create a silky sauce.

Serving Suggestions: This dish is best served immediately, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for a day. For leftovers, you might want to eat them cold as a pasta salad.

Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients such as olives, arugula, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added depth and flavor.

Balsamic Vinegar: While white balsamic vinegar is recommended for its milder flavor, regular balsamic can also be used, but it may change the dish’s appearance.

Nutrition Information:

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YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

However, the taste will be different, so fresh is preferable when possible.

What can I substitute for fresh mozzarella?

If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use diced mozzarella or burrata.

You could also use a part-skim mozzarella for a lower-fat option, though it may not have the same creaminess.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

The pasta can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad, though the texture may change.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the tomato mixture and cook the pasta ahead of time.

Just combine them right before serving to maintain the pasta’s texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the linguine with a gluten-free pasta option, available in most grocery stores.

Be sure to check the label to ensure it meets your dietary needs.

How do I know when the pasta is cooked perfectly?

Cook the linguine until it is al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.

Check the package instructions for timing, but start tasting a minute or two before the suggested time.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.

Just sauté them briefly before adding them to the pasta to enhance their flavor.

What type of tomatoes works best for this recipe?

Ripe, in-season tomatoes work best. Heirloom, Roma, or vine-ripened tomatoes are great choices.

If using cherry or grape tomatoes, you can halve them for added sweetness.

Is it necessary to let the tomato mixture sit?

Yes, letting the tomato mixture sit for about 15 minutes helps the flavors meld together and allows the tomatoes to release their juices, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the mozzarella or substitute it with a plant-based cheese or avocado for creaminess.

Adjust the seasonings to taste, and it will still be delicious!