Best 2 One Pot Caprese Pasta Recipes

Indulge in a symphony of flavors with our One-Pot Caprese Pasta, a culinary masterpiece that combines the vibrant freshness of Italian cuisine with the convenience of one-pot cooking. This tantalizing dish features a delectable combination of juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, creamy mozzarella cheese, and tender pasta, all harmoniously united in a savory tomato sauce. But that's not all; we also present a delightful collection of variations to cater to every palate. From the classic simplicity of our Traditional Caprese Pasta to the zesty kick of our Spicy Arrabbiata Caprese Pasta, and the creamy indulgence of our Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta, there's a Caprese Pasta recipe for every occasion and taste preference. So, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and savor the delectable essence of Italy, all in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

ONE-POT CAPRESE PASTA

One-Pot Caprese Pasta image

This dish tastes just like your favorite summer salad, only heartier. If you haven't tried a one-pot pasta yet, do: It's a great timesaving trick. Place all the ingredients in the pot together, add enough water and simmer. The noodles and sauce cook together, which means this dinner is ready in just 15 minutes. Stirring in the fresh mozzarella after the pasta has finished cooking creates an almost instant cream sauce, coating each noodle with a hint of cheese.

Provided by Food Network

Categories main-dish

Time 25m

Yield 5 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

3 cups chopped tomatoes (fresh is best, but you can use diced canned tomatoes)
1 pound whole-wheat spaghetti
4 cups water
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish, roughly torn
1 cup shredded mozzarella
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Shaved Parmesan cheese, optional

Steps:

Place the tomatoes, spaghetti, water, garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano and oil in a stockpot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the basil, mozzarella and salt and pepper to taste. Serve with Parmesan if using.

EASY ONE-POT CAPRESE PASTA

Easy One-Pot Caprese Pasta image

Simple pasta with cherry tomatoes, light cheese, and basil

Provided by Brooke Griffin

Yield Serves 6

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

12 ounces whole wheat rigatoni (I like Barilla)
1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes with basil (I like Hunt's)
4 light string cheese sticks (I like Sargento), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 (10-oz.) container grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 small onion, diced
About 12 fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
About 6 fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
6 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese (I like Sargento Artisan Blends), for garnish (optional)

Steps:

In a large pot, combine 3 cups of water, the pasta, crushed tomatoes, cheese pieces, grape tomatoes, onion, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered until the pasta has softened, 25 to 30 minutes. Much of the water will boil out.
Serve drizzled with balsamic vinegar. If desired, garnish with chopped basil and Parmesan.

Tips:

Select High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor.
Use Freshly Made Pasta: If possible, use homemade or fresh store-bought pasta for a more authentic taste and texture.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, but aim for an al dente texture, which means slightly firm to the bite.
Reserve Pasta Water: Don't discard the pasta water; reserve some of it to add to the sauce for a creamier consistency.
Don't Overcook the Tomatoes: Cook the tomatoes briefly just until they soften slightly; overcooking will make them mushy.
Use Good Quality Olive Oil: Choose a flavorful extra virgin olive oil to enhance the taste of the dish.
Add Fresh Basil at the End: Stir in fresh basil leaves just before serving for maximum flavor and aroma.
Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning of the sauce with salt and pepper to your preference.
Garnish with Extra Basil and Parmesan: Garnish the pasta with additional fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Conclusion:

One-pot Caprese pasta is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of Caprese salad with the convenience of a one-pot meal. With its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and delicious taste, this pasta is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you're a busy weeknight cook or a lover of Italian cuisine, this one-pot Caprese pasta is a recipe you'll want to keep in your repertoire.