Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. gresal pasta
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Rinse cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat.
3. Roast tomatoes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they start to burst and caramelize.
4. While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gresal pasta and cook according to package instructions, or until al dente.
5. Drain pasta in a colander and return it to the pot.
6. Add roasted tomatoes and diced mozzarella to the pot with the pasta. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
5. Temperature:
Roast tomatoes at 400°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 400mg
Sugar: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Gresal pasta can be substituted with any other short pasta, such as penne or fusilli.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes.
- Fresh mozzarella can be substituted with shredded mozzarella or grated Parmesan cheese.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil or parsley.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Substitute roasted red peppers for the roasted tomatoes.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Use different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free.
Tips and tricks:
- Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook when combined with the other ingredients.
- Use a good quality olive oil for the roasted tomatoes.
- Let the roasted tomatoes cool slightly before adding them to the pasta, as they will be very hot.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
This pasta dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the pasta is too dry, add a splash of olive oil or pasta water to loosen it up.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the pasta and roasted tomatoes to the appropriate temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
Gresal pasta is a traditional Italian pasta shape that resembles a small snail shell.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is savory and slightly sweet from the roasted tomatoes, with a creamy and tangy flavor from the fresh mozzarella.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this pasta dish as a main course for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.
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Region: Italian