Description

A quick and flavorful 30-minute pasta dish featuring Italian sausage, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil in a light garlic and olive oil sauce, inspired by the classic Caprese salad.

Ingredients

Units Scale

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
12 oz Italian sausage, casings removed
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mozzarella pearls
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes

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Instructions

Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it into pieces, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1 minute.
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to combine.
Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella, basil, and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 75mg