Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of silky angel hair pasta, coated in vibrant green pesto, and studded with creamy mozzarella cubes that melt tantalizingly with each bite. This isn't just another pasta recipe - it's a culinary escape to the sun-drenched kitchens of Italy, crafted with simplicity and bursting with flavor. Whether you're a busy home cook craving a quick gourmet meal or a pasta enthusiast looking for your next obsession, this Angel Hair with Pesto and Mozzarella will transform your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary in just 20 magical minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt helps to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Once the water is boiling, add the 8 oz of angel hair pasta. Stir gently to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes, until al dente. Angel hair pasta cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare your other ingredients. Cube the 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and set it aside.
- In a small bowl, measure out 1/2 cup of pesto. You can use store-bought pesto or make your own if desired.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep some of the starch to help the sauce adhere.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Add the pesto to the pasta and toss gently to combine, ensuring that all the pasta is coated evenly.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the pasta is well coated with pesto, add the cubed mozzarella cheese and toss gently to mix. The heat from the pasta will begin to soften the cheese.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and add salt if needed.
- To serve, divide the pasta between two plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
- Enjoy your delicious Angel Hair with Pesto and Mozzarella!
Tips
- • Always salt your pasta water generously - it's your first chance to add flavor to the dish. • Don't overcook angel hair pasta; it can turn mushy in seconds. Start checking for doneness at 4 minutes. • Reserve some pasta water before draining. Its starchy magic helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the noodles. • For extra richness, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated cheese. • Want to elevate the dish? Toast some pine nuts and sprinkle them on top for added crunch. • If your pesto is store-bought, consider adding a fresh basil leaf or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 835kcal
Carbohydrates: 92g
Protein: 37g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 55mg
