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Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto and Mozzarella Pearls Recipe

Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto and Mozzarella Pearls Recipe


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4.6 from 24 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in a delightful dish of pasta with a twist – sun-dried tomato pesto and mozzarella pearls elevate this Italian classic to a whole new level. The rich flavors of the pesto combined with the creamy mozzarella pearls create a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and luxurious.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces pasta (such as fusilli or penne)

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto:

  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil (drained)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice until a smooth pesto forms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Combine and Serve: Toss the warm pasta with the sun-dried tomato pesto, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency. Gently stir in the mozzarella pearls and chopped basil. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Notes

  • For added protein, top with grilled chicken or shrimp.
  • Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg