Tubetti With Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella Recipe
Are you tired of the same old pasta recipes? Want to add some pizzazz to your next meal? Look no further than this Tubetti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella recipe. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
As an assistant for a BBQ chef, I can confidently say this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, and smoked mozzarella cheese creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. And don’t let the name fool you – tubetti may not be a household name, but it’s just a small tube-shaped pasta that complements this dish perfectly.
But this isn’t just any pasta dish. It’s elevated with the addition of oregano, garlic clove, black pepper, salt, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. The tangy kick from the vinegar paired with the creaminess of the mozzarella creates a well-balanced dish that is sure to impress.
And let’s not forget about the convenience factor – this recipe comes together quickly and easily. You don’t have to be a top chef to make it work. In fact, even novice cooks can whip up this dish with ease.
So what are you waiting for? Add some variety to your dinner menu and give this Tubetti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella recipe a try. You won’t regret it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I have a recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to heaven. It’s called Tubetti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella, and it’s one of the tastiest pasta dishes you’ll ever have the pleasure of devouring.
Why should you give this recipe a try, you may ask? Well, let me tell you all about it.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the ingredients. Imagine a bowl of perfectly cooked tubetti coated in a creamy tomato sauce that’s bursting with the flavor of juicy sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. Now picture that same bowl topped with chunks of smoked mozzarella cheese that oozes and melts with every bite. Sounds amazing, right?
But wait, there’s more. This recipe also boasts the flavors of fresh basil, oregano, garlic cloves, black pepper, and red wine vinegar – all contributing to an impeccable marriage of flavors.
Not convinced yet? Well, allow me to explain further. This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed all year round. It can be served warm during those chilly autumn months or chilled over ice as a refreshing summer pasta salad.
And if that’s not enough – it’s incredibly easy to make! You don’t need any kitchen wizardry skills to prepare this dish. All you need is some warm water, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, smoked mozzarella cheese, and a handful of seasoning.
So why not give this recipe a try? Who knows – after one bite of these tantalizing flavors, you may just join me in declaring it one of your all-time favorite pasta dishes!
Ingredient List
Ingredients You Will Need
- 2 cups of tubetti sun-dried tomato pasta
- 1 cup of smoked mozzarella cheese, grated or chopped
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- 2 tbsp of sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 4 tsp of red wine vinegar
- 1/4 tsp of dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp of black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 4 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Note: It’s important to use the exact measurements and ingredients listed in the recipe for perfect results. However, if you can’t find tubetti sun-dried tomato pasta, you can use other short shapes like penne, rigatoni or fusilli. Also, if you don’t have smoked mozzarella cheese, you can substitute it with smoked gouda or regular mozzarella.
The Recipe How-To
Step One: Cooking the Tubetti
Firstly, I begin by bringing two cups of warm water to a boil. Once the water has reached boiling point, I add in two teaspoons of salt and one cup of Tubetti pasta. I allow the pasta to cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, until it is tender.
Step Two: Preparing the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella
Meanwhile, I finely chop up one garlic clove and roughly chop up about 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. These are going to infuse a delicious flavour into our dish.
Next, I cut about 1/2 a cup of smoked mozzarella cheese into small pieces. The smoked cheese adds an element of depth and richness that goes perfectly with the sun-dried tomatoes.
Step Three: Creating the Tomato Sauce Mix
In a small mixing bowl, I prepare the tomato sauce mix. I mix together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 4 teaspoons of red wine vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of oregano. After enjoying a stir or two, I then throw in the chopped garlic and sundried tomatoes.
Then, I take out my favorite ceramic bowl- one where there is enough room for all these ingredients to mingle together; trust me, these flavours become like old friends when they meet each other in your bowl!
Final Step: Putting It All Together
Once everything is prepped, drain the cooked pasta and toss it in with the tomato sauce mix. Along with this added flavor, I sprinkle some freshly chopped basil leaves, which provides that fresh herb finish to contrast against the smokiness of the cheese.
Finally, add the chopped smoked mozzarella cheese over the top while still warm; only then will you “melt” in awe at how beautiful this pasta dish truly is. And there you have it! Creamy smoked cheese sun dried pasta using tubetti delish recipe!
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to get creative with this recipe? There are plenty of ways to switch things up and make it your own! Here are just a few ideas for substitutions and variations:
– Swap out the sun-dried tomatoes for fresh cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced in half. This will give the dish a bright, fresh flavor that’s perfect for summer.
– Don’t have smoked mozzarella on hand? Try using smoked gouda cheese instead for a richer, more intense smoky flavor.
– Want to make this dish vegetarian? Simply omit the garlic clove and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
– If you’re not a fan of tubetti pasta, feel free to use any small pasta shape you like. Penne or rigatoni would both work well here.
– For a creamier version of this dish, try adding 1/2 cup of heavy cream along with the chicken broth in step 3. You could also experiment with other types of cheese, like creamy goat cheese or tangy feta.
– Love the flavor of basil? Add a handful of chopped fresh basil leaves to the sauce in step 4 for an extra burst of flavor.
No matter what substitutions or variations you choose to make, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures. With so many delicious ingredients to work with, the possibilities are truly endless!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving tubetti with sun-dried tomatoes and smoked mozzarella, there are several pairing options that you might want to consider.
First off, you can enjoy this pasta dish all on its own as a main course. This recipe packs a punch with its combination of flavors and textures, so there’s no need to overdo it with additional side dishes. However, if you feel the need to round out the meal, consider serving it with a simple mixed greens salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.
Alternatively, if you’re hosting a larger gathering or potluck-style event, this pasta makes an excellent side dish. Pair it with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a filling and well-rounded meal. It also goes perfectly with simply prepared vegetables like grilled asparagus or sautéed zucchini.
Another great idea for pairing this pasta is to serve it alongside other Italian-inspired dishes. Some options might include creamy chicken pasta, rigatoni with smoked gouda cheese sauce, or penne tomato pesto from your favorite Italian restaurant (Olive Garden anyone?). You could even turn this recipe into a tomato pesto pasta by mixing in some of your favorite store-bought tomato pesto!
As far as drinks go, a light and refreshing white wine such as a Pinot Grigio would pair perfectly with this pasta. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, sparkling water with fresh citrus slices would make an excellent accompaniment.
Regardless of how you choose to serve and pair this dish, one thing is certain: it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Who doesn’t love leftovers? The good thing about this Tubetti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. Simply cook the pasta and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also prepare the sauce and keep it separately in a sealed container.
When you are ready to serve, just mix the pasta and sauce together and reheat over medium-low heat until warm. It’s so easy! This dish still tastes delicious even after being stored overnight in the fridge. In fact, the flavors tend to blend together well if you eat it the next day!
In case you have leftovers again, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 more days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on low heat either in the microwave or on the stove top. You may also add a splash of olive oil and salt to moisten before reheating.
Note that if you have leftover sauce or intend to store it for future use, be sure to use it within 5 days. The best approach would be to store the sauce separately from the pasta because sometimes, leftovers tend lose their texture or color when mixed and reheated.
One pro-tip: Add fresh chopped basil when reheating leftovers for an extra pop of flavor!
Tips for Perfect Results
Cooking pasta seems like an easy task. However, the small details can make a significant difference in the outcome of the dish. Below are some helpful tips to achieve perfect al dente Tubetti With Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella:
Firstly, ensure you use enough water when boiling the pasta. Pasta needs enough space to move around while cooking, or else it may stick together and become mushy. So, use two cups of water for each cup of Tubetti and add a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.
Secondly, know your stove’s capacity to boil pasta properly. If your stove has a high heat output, place it on medium heat otherwise the water will evaporate quickly before the pasta cooks through.
Thirdly, it’s important to taste test the pasta while cooking. Different brands require different cooking times, so follow the instructions on the package as per cooking time but also rely on your taste buds while checking the doneness.
Fourthly, when draining the water from cooked pasta, reserve a small amount of cooking liquid. The starch in it helps bind any sauce and helps prevent individual pieces from clumping together when mixed with sauces.
Fifthly, after you’ve drained the excess water, consider adding a drizzle of olive oil to help coat every piece and prevent sticking especially if storing for later.
Finally, don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil before serving to take your dish up a notch!
FAQ
Before we wrap up, I want to take a moment to address some frequently asked questions from readers about this recipe. I get it – sometimes you need a bit of extra information to ensure that the dish turns out just right. So, let’s dive in and answer some of the most common questions about Tubetti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella.
Do you soak sundried tomatoes before cooking?
Before using sun-dried tomatoes in a recipe, it’s important to rehydrate them with liquid. If buying tomatoes that are not packed in oil, simply cover them with warm water and soak for approximately two hours at room temperature to get them plump and usable.
How do you use jarred sundried tomatoes?
Sun-dried tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can elevate the flavor of many dishes. They can be used in a variety of recipes such as sauces, dips, appetizers, pastas and soups, just to name a few! Don’t forget to keep the oil that the tomatoes are packed in, as it can be used to enhance the taste of other recipes. You can add the oil to salad dressings, or use it to saute onions, garlic or shallots to give your dish an extra burst of flavor. With sun-dried tomatoes, the possibilities are endless!
How do Italians dry tomatoes?
When it comes to making dried tomatoes, I prefer to follow the Italian method of leaving sliced tomatoes out in the sun for a few days. Another option is to use an oven or food dehydrator at a low temperature, such as 250 degrees Fahrenheit, for a few hours. The end result is a delicious and flavorful dried tomato that can be used in a variety of dishes.
What makes sundried tomatoes so good?
Tomatoes that have been dried in the sun pack a punch of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Lycopene, a potent antioxidant, is found in especially high amounts in these tomatoes. This compound has garnered attention for its potential benefits, such as shielding the skin from the harmful effects of the sun, according to preliminary studies conducted in September 2022.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of pasta dishes and looking for something new to try, I highly recommend giving this Tubetti With Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella recipe a try. The combination of tangy sun-dried tomatoes with the smoky flavor of smoked mozzarella is a match made in heaven, and the addition of fresh basil and oregano takes it to the next level.
This recipe is also customizable to fit your taste preferences. If you prefer a creamier pasta, add some heavy cream or butter to the mixture. Feel free to substitute the Tubetti with any other pasta shape that you have on hand. You can even experiment with different types of cheese and see what works best for you.
As for serving and pairing, this dish goes well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine can also complement the savory flavors of the pasta.
Overall, this Tubetti With Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, it’s no wonder why it’s become one of my go-to pasta dishes. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!
Tubetti With Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Smoked Mozzarella Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups tubetti
- 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 pinch oregano
- 8 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4 inch dice
- 6 sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta until al dente.
- Drain and rinse.
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh tomatoes, oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic and oregano.
- Add the tubetti, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes and basil; toss to blend.
YOUR OWN NOTE
Nutrition
You’ll Love These Recipes
Dibi (Senegalese Grilled Lamb With Onion-Mustard Sauce) Recipe
Grilled and Stuffed Giant Marconi Peppers Recipe
Steaks in Garlic Lime Marinade (Palomilla) Recipe
Grilled Gouda Cheese Sandwiches With Smoked Ham and Pumpernickel Recipe
Julie’s Baked or Grilled Black Cod Teriyaki Recipe
Polpettine Alla Griglia (Sicilian Lemon Grilled Meatballs) Recipe
Mouthwatering Short Ribs Contadina Recipe to Try Today
Short Ribs With Tagliatelle (And Chocolate!) Giada De Laurentiis Recipe
Smoked Gouda and Doppelbock Fondue Recipe
Vietnamese Grilled Shrimp – Tom Cang Nuong Recipe
Deliciously Healthy Nif’s Grilled Fish Burritos: Grilled to Perfection
Easy Sarasota’s Chicken Crockpot Pepper Recipe
Shara @The Bird BBQ
Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.