Aromatic Penne with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil

Here is a simple but tasty recipe to prepare aromatic penne with mozzarella, tomato and basil.

Ingredients

• 320g of penne rigate
• 3-4 ripe tomatoes, or 250g of cherry tomatoes
• 200g of mozzarella (buffalo mozzarella is best)
• A bunch of fresh basil
• 2 garlic cloves
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste (optional)
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Preparation

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne rigate according to the package instructions until al dente.

2. While the penne are cooking, wash and dice the tomatoes. If using cherry tomatoes, simply cut them in half. Place the tomatoes in a large bowl.

3. Drain the mozzarella and dice it, then add it to the tomatoes.

4. Wash the basil and tear the leaves by hand to release their aroma. Add the basil to the tomatoes and mozzarella.

5. In a skillet, heat a drizzle of oil and sauté the whole garlic cloves until golden, then remove them. This allows the oil to take on the garlic flavor without it overpowering the dish.

6. Drain the al dente penne and transfer them to the bowl with the tomato, mozzarella and basil mixture. Pour the garlic-infused oil over the top.

7. Stir gently so the heat from the penne begins to melt the mozzarella and release the basil aromas.

8. Taste and adjust the salt, add a grind of black pepper if desired and a pinch of Parmesan, if you like.

9. Serve the aromatic penne immediately while still hot and stringy.

Fun Fact

This recipe is an example of how Italian cuisine can be simple yet full of flavor. Fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs are the stars of many Italian dishes. In particular, basil, with its pungent and refreshing scent, is often associated with Southern Italian cooking, especially its use in the famous tomato sauce or on Margherita pizza.