Caprese Pasta

Ingredients

• 16 ozPasta$1.80
• 8 ozFresh mozzarella$4.20
• 3Tomatoes$3.00
• 1 bunchBasil$2.50
• 3 tbspExtra virgin olive oil$0.67
• 2Garlic cloves$0.08
• 1.5 tspSalt—
• 1/4 tspBlack pepper$0.03
• Total for 4 servings$12.28

Most of the cost is fresh mozzarella ($4.20) and tomatoes ($3.00). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $9.81. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of the salt. Dice the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes, finely mince the garlic cloves, and tear the basil leaves.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook over medium-high heat for 9 to 11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente with a firm bite at the center, then drain well.
3. In a large serving bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, remaining 0.5 teaspoon salt, and black pepper off the heat, letting the flavors marry for 2 to 3 minutes while the pasta finishes.
4. Transfer the hot, drained pasta and diced fresh mozzarella into the bowl with the tomato mixture, tossing gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the pasta is glossy and the cheese softens into warm pockets.
5. Scatter the torn basil over the pasta and fold in gently until evenly distributed and slightly wilted from the residual warmth.
6. Divide the pasta among four shallow bowls and serve warm or at room temperature.