Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Divide Bar & GrillMargherita Pasta Recipe

Margherita Pasta Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Penne pasta, olive oil, garlic, tomato, asiago cheese, and garnished with basil

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Sauce

Garnish

Method

Cooking the Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes.

  2. 2

    Drain the Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water for later.

Making the Sauce

  1. 3

    Heat the Olive Oil

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Allow it to heat for about 1-2 minutes.

  2. 4

    Sauté Garlic

    Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

  3. 5

    Add Tomatoes

    Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.

  4. 6

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

  5. 7

    Add Cheese and Season

    Stir in the grated Asiago cheese, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.

Serving

  1. 8

    Garnish and Serve

    Remove from heat and transfer the Margherita pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

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