This Ziti Alla Mediterranea is a celebration of fresh, sun-ripened flavors. By blending fresh beefsteak tomatoes with basil and olive oil, you create a bright, silky sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. The addition of pitted Greek olives adds a salty, briny contrast, while fresh mozzarella provides a creamy, mild richness. It&# 226;ÂÂs a dish that feels both rustic and elegant, perfect for a warm summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet tomatoes, savory cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious balance that satisfies without being heavy. Serve it family-style for a comforting meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean coast to your table.
Ziti Alla Mediterranea
Description
This Ziti Alla Mediterranea is a celebration of fresh, sun-ripened flavors. By blending fresh beefsteak tomatoes with basil and olive oil, you create a bright, silky sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. The addition of pitted Greek olives adds a salty, briny contrast, while fresh mozzarella provides a creamy, mild richness. It&# 226;ÂÂs a dish that feels both rustic and elegant, perfect for a warm summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet tomatoes, savory cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious balance that satisfies without being heavy. Serve it family-style for a comforting meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean coast to your table.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
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Place 3 beefsteak tomatoes, 4 fresh basil leaves, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and a pinch of salt into a blender.
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Blend until smooth, about 30-60 seconds, then set aside.
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Dice the remaining 3 beefsteak tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
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Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
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In a large skillet or the pot used for pasta, combine the drained pasta, blended tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and pitted Greek olives.
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Toss over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
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Remove from heat and immediately top with torn fresh mozzarella cheese.
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Cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
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Serve immediately, garnished with whole bay leaves and remaining fresh basil.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1597.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 112.8g174%
- Saturated Fat 66.7g334%
- Cholesterol 404.2mg135%
- Sodium 2651.2mg111%
- Total Carbohydrate 16.7g6%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 7.8g
- Protein 143.5g287%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. If tomatoes are not in season, high-quality canned crushed tomatoes can be substituted, though the fresh basil blend step should still be performed for brightness.
Fresh mozzarella works best because it melts softly without becoming rubbery. If unavailable, low-moisture mozzarella shreds can be used, but add them earlier in the heating process.
Adjust the amount of salt carefully, as both the olives and cheese contribute significant sodium to the dish. Taste before adding extra salt.
This dish is best served immediately while the cheese is still warm and melty. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
