Grenadian Caprese Pasta

Ingredients

In this Grenadian adaptation of Pasta alla Caprese, we incorporate the unique flavors of Grenadian cuisine. The traditional Italian dish is enhanced with the addition of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple, which add a refreshing sweetness. Grenadian spices, such as scotch bonnet peppers, are used to infuse the tomato sauce with a hint of heat, giving the dish a distinct Caribbean flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Pasta alla caprese, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8oz) pasta 250g (8.8oz) pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 tomatoes, diced 4 tomatoes, diced
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe mango, diced 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 cup diced pineapple 1 cup diced pineapple
• 200g (7oz) fresh mozzarella, torn into small pieces 200g (7oz) fresh mozzarella, torn into small pieces
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 15g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme leaves, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
4. 4.
   Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat it evenly with the tomato sauce.
5. 5.
   Stir in the diced mango and pineapple, allowing them to warm through.
6. 6.
   Remove the pan from heat and add the torn mozzarella pieces. Gently toss to combine, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
7. 7.
   Serve the Grenadian Caprese Pasta garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mango — Choose a ripe mango for maximum sweetness. Peel and dice it just before adding it to the dish to retain its freshness.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Handle with caution and wear gloves when mincing the pepper to avoid skin irritation. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For a milder version, remove the seeds from the scotch bonnet pepper before mincing.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Experiment with different tropical fruits like papaya or guava for a unique flavor combination.
• Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and tropical flair.
• Serve the Grenadian Caprese Pasta chilled for a refreshing summer meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Grenadian Caprese Pasta as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad and some crusty bread. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled fish or shrimp for a complete Caribbean-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Grenadian Caprese Pasta in a vibrant serving dish, allowing the colorful ingredients to shine. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of paprika for an appealing visual contrast.