Fresh Mozzarella Penne Pasta

By RossanaV

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 3 medium tomatoes peeled and diced
• 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons coarse salt (or 1 teaspoon regular table salt)
• pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 1 16-ounce package uncooked penne pasta
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese

Preparation

Step 1

In a large bowl, toss mozzarella cheese with tomatoes, avocados, garlic, olive oil, basil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let stand at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. 

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and return to pan to keep warm. Add tomato mixture and toss to coat thoroughly. Transfer onto individual serving pla tes and garnish with parmesan cheese. Servings: 4.