Pasta Caprese

One of my most favorite dishes to eat in the summer! It's so light and so filling and so delicious!

Pasta Caprese

Ingredients

• 28oz can of diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• fresh ground pepper, to taste
• cayenne pepper, just a pinch
• 1lb rigatoni
• 8oz mozzarella, cubed
• approximately 15 fresh basil leaves, finely shredded

Directions

1. Place the peeled and diced tomatoes in a colander for about 15 minutes to remove excess juices.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the drained tomatoes, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper. Mix the ingredients well and let sit for 20 minutes at room temperature.
3. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
5. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
6. Add the tomato mixture, mozzarella and basil to the pasta. Toss gently and serve immediately.