Make this delicious pasta with the great taste of the favorite caprese salad in just a little of your time. Serve it with garlic bread and a salad.
12 oz. linguine or fettuccine
1 c. marinara sauce
1 c. packed basil leaves
2 T. olive oil
1/4 t. salt
1/8 t. black pepper
1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese, divided
1 c. cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
4 oz. fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
Wash tomatoes, drain and slice each in half.
Cook pasta al dente, according to package directions, do not over cook. Drain; set aside.
Move oven rack to the center setting. Preheat oven to HIGH broil.
In a food processor, add basil leaves, salt, pepper, and 1/4 c. Parmesan or Asiago cheese; process on High; drizzle in oil while processing. Scrape down sides; process again till completely combined.
In the pot used to boil the pasta, add marinara sauce, basil mixture, and tomatoes; stir to combine. Add pasta back into pot; stir carefully to evenly coat with sauce. Pour pasta into a large greased baking or casserole dish. Top with Mozzarella rounds and remaining Parmesan or Asiago cheese.
Place in center of oven; broil on high 5-7 minutes, or until cheese has melted and is browning. Be careful so it doesn't burn.
Carefully remove from oven, garnish with additional basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately and dig in!