Summer Caprese Pasta with Salami
When the weather becomes oppressively hot and the world seems to move in slow motion, cooking can seem like an impossible task. This simplest of pastas (like our summer caprese pasta with salami), made from the best of summer’s bounty with tomatoes, basil and mint, takes so little effort – the only cooking is boiling water! The heat of the pasta itself takes the edgy bite off of the raw garlic so that only its nutty, allium-filled glory remains. Coupled with sea salt, fresh mozzarella and Volpi salame, you have a gratifying, barely-earned lunch. Share it with Nonna on the back patio in vinyl chairs and take in the stillness of summer.
Directions
Bring 6 quarts of water and 3 tablespoons of kosher salt to a rolling boil.
In a bowl, combine tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and sea salt. Stir, then let sit for about 10 minutes to marinate and allow the juices to release.
Add the ziti to the salted water. Cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
Add the pasta to the marinated tomatoes and stir to coat. Add the mozzarella, salami and crushed red pepper. Stir to distribute. Tear the herbs over the pasta and toss to combine. Season to taste with additional olive oil, sea salt or crushed red pepper as desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your Summer Caprese Pasta with Salame!
