Sunday, February 6, 2011

Caprese-Style Pasta

I love the fresh sweet taste of tomatoes and tossed with crumbles of mozzarella and perfectly al dente pasta, this is a dish that is ready in the time it takes to cook the pasta. So simple, refreshing, light, and packed with a flavorful punch that tingles the tastebuds, this has become the ideal, no-shopping-required, light meal that makes me look like I slaved in the kitchen for hours.

1/2 lb. linguine ($.35)
14.5 oz. can fire-roasted diced tomatoes ($.55)
2 T. olive oil ($.10)
1 T. balsamic vinegar ($.10)
salt and pepper, to taste ($.05)
2 tsp. basil ($.10)
1/2 C. crumbled mozzarella ($.35)
3 sundried tomatoes, chopped fine, optional ($.30)

Cook pasta to al dente according to package directions. Drain well.

In a medium nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, combine fire-roasted tomatoes, olive oil, vinegar, basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 8-12 minutes, until all ingredients are well combined and heat through. Toss pasta and mozzarella with sauce, topping with sundried tomatoes, if desired.

Serve with salad and bread.
Yields = 4 servings
Cost: $1.90
Cost per serving: $.48

* This dish also serves well as a side dish, paired with fish, seafood, poultry, or as part of an Italian feast. *

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