Penne with Baby Mozzarella, Tomatoes, and Herbs Recipe | Recipe Iseasy Kitchen
Level: Easy
Yield: 4 servings
Total: 30 min
Prep: 20 min
Cook: 10 min
Nutritional Analysis Per Serving
Serving Size: 1 of 4 servings
Calories: 776
Total Fat: 36 g
Saturated Fat: 16 g
Carbohydrates: 76 g
Dietary Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 8 g
Protein: 38 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg
Sodium: 942 mg
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne rigate or another small tube-shaped pasta, such as ziti or short fusilli (corkscrews)
- 4 sprigs fresh oregano
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 clove garlic, smashed
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pound baby mozzarella (bocconcini), drained
- 2 tablespoons fruity extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 3 large ripe tomatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
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Description
This delightful penne pasta dish bursts with tender baby mozzarella balls, juicy ripe tomatoes, and aromatic herbscreating a quick, irresistible meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Dive into fresh Italian-inspired flavors with minimal effort: earthy oregano and thyme mingle with briny kalamata olives and bright parsley, while tomatoes add a vibrant pop in every bite. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's your ticket to restaurant-quality taste at home!
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of cold water to a rolling boil over high heat. Season generously with salt, add the pasta, and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain well.
- While pasta boils, strip leaves from oregano and thyme sprigs. Finely chop with smashed garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Mash into a paste with your knife's flat edge. In a bowl, toss with drained baby mozzarella and 2 tablespoons olive oil to coat evenly.
- Chop tomatoes into chunks matching the mozzarella size. Fold in parsley and olives. Add drained pasta, toss thoroughly, then drizzle with extra oil and mix once more. Serve warm immediately or at room temperature.
Tips from Recipe Iseasy Kitchens
- Opt for fully ripened, heavy tomatoesthey release juices to naturally dress the pasta.
- No bocconcini? Use fresh mozzarella pearls, drained well.
- Pair with crisp greens or crusty bread. Vegetarian-friendly; swap cheese for vegan alternatives.
- Boost protein and fiber in a light, satisfying mealexperiment with basil for a Caprese vibe.
- Store leftovers up to 2 days in fridge; refresh with olive oil before gently reheating.
Simple ingredients, no-cook sauce, and big flavor: inspire your next dinner with this fresh, foolproof penne that proves easy cooking can wow every time!
