Summer Fresh Pasta: Tomatoes and Prosciutto Delight

Summer is the season for fresh, vibrant flavors, and this pasta dish perfectly captures that essence. Combining juicy ripe tomatoes, salty prosciutto, fragrant basil, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and elegant enough for a summer dinner party. This pasta dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, boasting a vibrant color palette that reflects the season’s bounty. Let’s dive into the details of creating this culinary masterpiece.

Why This Recipe Works

This summer pasta recipe is a winner for several reasons:

* **Fresh, seasonal ingredients:** Using ripe, in-season tomatoes makes a huge difference in the overall flavor. Their sweetness and juiciness are unmatched.
* **Simple preparation:** The recipe requires minimal cooking and prep time, making it perfect for warm weather when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
* **Balanced flavors:** The combination of sweet tomatoes, salty prosciutto, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella creates a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.
* **Versatile:** You can easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding other vegetables, different types of cheese, or using a different pasta shape.
* **Visually appealing:** The bright colors of the ingredients make this dish visually stunning, adding to its overall appeal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:

* **Pasta:** 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape (spaghetti, linguine, penne, or farfalle all work well). We prefer spaghetti or linguine for this dish as the sauce coats the long strands beautifully. However, shorter pasta shapes like penne or farfalle also work wonderfully, especially if you have children.
* **Tomatoes:** 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, such as Roma or heirloom tomatoes, diced. The type of tomatoes you use will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Roma tomatoes are a reliable choice, offering a good balance of sweetness and acidity. Heirloom tomatoes, on the other hand, provide a more complex and intense flavor profile. Cherry tomatoes, halved, are also a fantastic option for a sweeter and more colorful dish.
* **Prosciutto:** 4 ounces of thinly sliced prosciutto, roughly chopped. Prosciutto adds a salty and savory element to the pasta. Look for high-quality prosciutto for the best flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the prosciutto or substitute it with sun-dried tomatoes for a similar savory taste.
* **Fresh Basil:** 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped. Fresh basil is essential for this recipe, adding a fragrant and herbaceous note. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor won’t be as intense. When chopping the basil, gently roll the leaves together and then slice them thinly to prevent bruising.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the sauce. Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. For a milder flavor, use only one clove. For a more intense garlic flavor, use three cloves.
* **Olive Oil:** 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and flavor to the sauce. Use a high-quality olive oil for the best results.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 4 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed or torn. Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy and milky element to the pasta. Bocconcini (small mozzarella balls) are also a great option.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, for serving. Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor to the pasta. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional). Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the pasta. Omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Season the pasta and sauce with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your summer fresh pasta:

1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. The pasta water is essential for creating a creamy and emulsified sauce. The starch in the water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta.
2. **Prepare the Tomatoes:** While the pasta is cooking, prepare the tomatoes. Wash and dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. If using cherry tomatoes, halve them. You can also remove the seeds if you prefer, but it’s not necessary.
3. **Sauté the Garlic:** In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The fragrant garlic infused oil is a foundation of flavor in this dish.
4. **Add Tomatoes and Prosciutto:** Add the diced tomatoes and chopped prosciutto to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened slightly and released their juices. The prosciutto will crisp up slightly, adding a delicious salty element to the sauce. The tomatoes will release their natural sweetness, creating a flavorful base for the pasta.
5. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato and prosciutto sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Continue tossing until the sauce is creamy and clings to the pasta.
6. **Add Basil and Mozzarella:** Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and cubed or torn mozzarella cheese. The heat from the pasta will gently melt the mozzarella, creating a creamy and gooey texture. Be careful not to overcook the mozzarella, as it can become rubbery. Gently toss until the basil is incorporated and the mozzarella is slightly melted.
7. **Season and Serve:** Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. A final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also be added for extra richness and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the burst of summer flavors.

Tips for the Best Summer Pasta

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The key to a great summer pasta is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes, good-quality prosciutto, and fresh basil for the best flavor.
* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta al dente, which means “to the tooth.” It should be firm and slightly chewy, not mushy.
* **Reserve Pasta Water:** The starchy pasta water is essential for creating a creamy sauce. Don’t skip this step!
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to balance the flavors.
* **Serve Immediately:** This pasta dish is best served immediately while the pasta is still warm and the mozzarella is melted.
* **Add a touch of acidity:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar can brighten the flavors and add a zing to the dish.
* **Toast Pine Nuts:** Toasted pine nuts can add a wonderful textural element and nutty flavor to the pasta. Sprinkle them on top before serving.
* **Don’t be afraid to experiment:** Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the pasta. You can also use different types of cheese like ricotta or goat cheese.

Variations and Add-ins

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for variations and add-ins:

* **Vegetarian:** Omit the prosciutto and add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted vegetables, or sautéed mushrooms.
* **Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
* **Seafood:** Add grilled shrimp, scallops, or calamari for a seafood pasta dish.
* **Creamy:** Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese for a creamier sauce.
* **Pesto:** Add a spoonful of pesto for a burst of fresh basil flavor.
* **Grilled Vegetables:** Incorporate grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a smoky flavor.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese such as feta, goat cheese, or provolone.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Artichoke Hearts:** Marinated artichoke hearts add a tangy and briny flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This summer fresh pasta is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with these dishes:

* **Grilled Chicken or Fish:** Serve the pasta as a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the pasta perfectly.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is a great accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.
* **Caprese Salad:** A Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is a refreshing appetizer.
* **Antipasto Platter:** Serve the pasta as part of an antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, and olives.

Make-Ahead Tips

While this pasta dish is best served fresh, you can prepare some of the ingredients ahead of time:

* **Dice the tomatoes:** You can dice the tomatoes a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
* **Chop the basil:** Chop the basil just before adding it to the pasta to prevent it from wilting.
* **Cook the pasta:** You can cook the pasta ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Before adding it to the sauce, toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

However, it’s best to assemble the pasta dish just before serving to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. The pasta may become slightly softer after being refrigerated, but it will still be delicious.

This summer fresh pasta with tomatoes and prosciutto is a delightful dish that’s perfect for warm weather. It’s easy to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite!

Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish! We’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations. Share your thoughts and pictures in the comments below. Bon appétit!