Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as vibrant as the Italian flag itself! The Italian Flag Bowtie Pasta is not just a meal; it's a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. With its colorful medley of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, this pasta dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Perfect for any occasion, it’s quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Are you ready to whip up a culinary masterpiece in just 35 minutes? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300 g farfalle (bowtie pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 300 g of farfalle pasta, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, 1 cup of mozzarella balls, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the farfalle pasta. Stir gently to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 10-12 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil mixture.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to ensure even distribution of the seasoning.
- Let the pasta sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Serve the Italian Flag Bowtie Pasta in bowls or on a large platter, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian meal!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Look for ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella for a truly authentic taste.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: When boiling the pasta, make sure to add a generous amount of salt to the water. This enhances the pasta's flavor and makes a big difference in the overall dish.
- Timing is Key: To ensure your pasta is perfectly al dente, keep an eye on the cooking time and taste a piece a minute or two before the package instructions suggest.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can help adjust the consistency of your dish and make the sauce cling better to the pasta.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after mixing will help the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to customize your dish with additional ingredients like olives, arugula, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within a couple of days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
