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!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright, fresh flavors that celebrate seasonal ingredients

Comes together in under 30 minutes

A lighter pasta dish that still feels comforting

Vegetarian-friendly and easy to adapt

Great for showcasing garden tomatoes or farmers’ market finds

Key Ingredients

Linguine: A tender pasta that’s perfect for soaking up the juicy tomato mixture

Fresh tomatoes: Ripe, in-season tomatoes add bold, juicy flavor

Mozzarella pearls: Soft and creamy, they melt just enough to add richness

Fresh basil & parsley: Bring vibrant color and classic Caprese flavor

Garlic & balsamic vinegar: Add depth and tang to the fresh tomato mix

Extra virgin olive oil: Enhances every component with its richness

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

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package directions.

Before draining, reserve 4 tablespoons of the pasta water.

Step 2:

While the pasta cooks, prep the tomatoes.

Dice them into ½-inch chunks (no need to peel), removing the seeds.

Place the tomatoes in a large mixing bowl and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3:

Drizzle the tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then stir in the minced garlic and balsamic vinegar.

Mix well and let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes so the flavors can blend and the tomatoes begin to release their juices.

Step 4:

After the pasta is drained, place it in a large serving bowl.

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and about half the reserved pasta water.

Toss gently to coat the linguine.

Step 5:

Add the tomato mixture to the pasta along with the fresh basil, parsley, and mozzarella pearls.

Toss everything together until evenly combined and the mozzarella starts to soften slightly from the warm pasta.

Step 6:

Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.

Serve immediately in bowls or on a platter, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

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.

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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:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot for boiling pasta

Large mixing bowl

Chef’s knife and cutting board

Garlic press or microplane (optional)

Measuring cups and spoons

Tongs or pasta fork for mixing

Recipe Swaps and Variations

Use cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes for a sweeter flavor and less prep

Try spaghetti or penne if you don’t have linguine on hand

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein

Drizzle with pesto or chili oil for a creative twist

Use white balsamic glaze or even lemon juice for a more delicate finish

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, like a pasta salad. Reheating may cause the mozzarella to melt and toughen.

Not freezer-friendly due to the fresh ingredients and cheese texture.

Food and Drink Pairings

Serve with: Toasted ciabatta, garlic bread, or a green salad with vinaigrette

Drinks: Crisp white wine (Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc), sparkling water with lemon, or a light iced tea

Dessert idea: Finish with fresh berries and whipped cream or a lemon sorbet

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!