Whole Grain Rotini with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

(NC)—Figuring out what to make for dinner during a busy week can often be a daunting task. With little time during the day to run out and grab groceries for dinner prep, planning and whipping up a nutritious dinner isn’t always easy.

Choosing a healthy option like Barilla whole grain pasta offers two times more fibre than regular pasta, and made with 51 per cent whole wheat, offers the great taste and texture of regular pasta. This whole grain rotini with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and basil recipe requires minimal prep, and allows you to incorporate ingredients commonly found in your pantry, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.

For an easy way to customize your serving size and for other great whole grain pasta recipes, visit <a href=”http://www.trybarillawholegrain.ca” target=”_blank”www.trybarillawholegrain.ca.

Whole Grain Rotini with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

Serves 4-6

2 cups Barilla whole grain rotini
2 cups cherry tomato, halved
113 grams mozzarella cheese, diced
4 leaves fresh basil, cut into strips
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
1 clove garlic, pressed
Salt (to taste)
Black pepper, freshly ground (to taste)

Cook Barilla whole grain rotini according to package directions.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until slightly yellow, about 2 minutes.

Remove garlic from skillet.

Add tomatoes to the skillet and sear until slightly blistered, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Drain pasta and add to the skillet. Remove skillet from heat. Mix well.

Add cheese, basil and remaining olive oil to the pasta. Toss to combine.

Source: www.newscanada.com