Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/9 checked
4
servings
1 pound

dried gemelli pasta

2 unit

garlic cloves

minced

2 cup

fresh basil leaves

packed

1 cup

fresh flat-leafed parsley leaves

packed

0.5 pound

bocconcini mozzarella

lightly salted

0.5 tsp

dried hot red pepper flakes

0.25 cup

extra-virgin olive oil

2 tbsp

red-wine vinegar

1 cup

arugula leaves

packed

Step 1
~3 min

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Step 2
~3 min

Mince the garlic and chop the fresh basil and parsley.

Step 3
~3 min

Quarter the large bocconcini mozzarella and halve the smaller ones.

Step 4
~3 min

In a large bowl, combine the cheese with the minced garlic, chopped herbs, red pepper flakes, olive oil, and salt to taste.

Step 5
~3 min

Cook the gemelli pasta in the boiling water until al dente, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 6
~3 min

Drain the pasta in a colander.

Step 7
~3 min

Stir the red-wine vinegar and arugula into the cheese mixture.

Step 8
~3 min

Add the hot pasta and the reserved pasta water to the cheese mixture. Toss gently, adding more pasta water as needed to prevent dryness, until well combined.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Toast the red pepper flakes in the olive oil for a more intense flavor.

Garnish with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

10 minutes

Batch Cooking
Not Ideal
Make Ahead

Can be made a few hours ahead, but best served fresh.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a light lunch or side dish.

Pair with a simple salad.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Grilled vegetables
Crusty bread

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Italy

Cultural Significance

Simple, everyday Italian cuisine.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Occasion Tags

weeknight dinner
casual gathering

Popularity Score

65/100

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