Fresh Tomato and Basil Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 cup basil leaves 
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese fresh cut into 1/4-in. pieces
• 4  garlic cloves minced
• 0.5 cup olive oil extra-virgin
• 1 pound penne pasta 
• 1 tbsp salt divided
• 1.5 pounds tomatoes halved seeded chopped

Equipment

• bowl
• pot

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tbsp. salt and the penne; cook pasta until just tender to the bite. While pasta is cooking, combine tomatoes, mozzarella, garlic, and basil in a large bowl.
2. Add olive oil and remaining salt to tomato mixture.
3. Drain pasta, add to tomato mixture, and toss.
4. Add salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, at room temperature, or cold (as a pasta salad).