Last Nights Dinner

Basil Spaghetti With Cheesy Broiled Tomatoes

brought to you by Real Simple

Serves 4| Hands-On Time: 15m | Total Time: 30m
Calories= 663/serving

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti *I used Fettucini! Personal Preference. 
• 3 large beefsteak tomatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds), each cut into 4 thick slices
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for the baking sheet
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, grated
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (1 ounce), plus more, shaved, for serving
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper *opted out! but definitely going to use next time!
• 3/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves, plus more for serving *also opted out. my husbands not a fan!

Directions

1. Heat broiler. Cook the pasta according to the package directions; drain and return it to the pot. *ADD a little salt and olive oil to boiling water
2. Meanwhile, arrange the tomato slices in a single layer on a lightly oiled rimmed baking sheet. Season with ¼ teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Dividing evenly, sprinkle the slices with the mozzarella and Parmesan. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden, 3 to 5 minutes.
3. In a small saucepan, warm the oil with the garlic and red pepper over medium heat until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. *ADD sweet vidalia onions! So delicious and full of flavor!
4. Add the garlic oil, basil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to the pasta and toss to combine. Serve topped with the tomatoes, additional basil, and shaved Parmesan.

Experiment with this Recipe:
For a creamier sauce add heavy cream to step #3!
Add Kalamata Olives to step #3 right before the sauce is just about done!


Rules I go by when cooking:
Remember to always have fun! 
Never fully go by the book! Add a little something, Subtract a little something! 
Clean as you go!


Mangia!