More 'maters!

In a world where we measure how good something is by the amount of effort it takes to get it, this pasta dish should be disgusting.  It is so easy!  In fact, I encourage you to include your kids in the process of making dinner.  This dish is not only yummy the first day, it makes an amazing cold salad that is sure to impress at office pot lucks. 

Pasta with Salsa Cruda

Tomatoes, 1 1/2 lbs, cored and coarsely chopped (if you have a plethora of cherry tomatoes, just cut them in 1/2-super easy)
Garlic, 2 cloves, minced (my toddler loves to help squeeze the garlic press)
Fresh basil, 1/2 cup, slivered
Olive Oil, 1/2 cup (I use closer to 1/4 cup)
Red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp
Mozzarella cheese, smoked of fresh, 1/2 lb, cubed
Pine nuts, 1/4 cup
salt and pepper
Pasta, I like Farfalle for this one, but use anything medium sized
Prosciutto, 2 oz thinly sliced, chopped

Serves 4

1  Prepare the sauce
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, garlic, basil, oil, and red pepper flakes.  Stir well and let stand at room temp for about 15 minutes.  Stir in the cheese and let stand for about 10 minutes longer.

2 Toast the pine nuts
Meanwhile, in a small frying pan over medium-high heat, toast the pine nuts, stirring often, until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).  Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3 Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (I start the water after I've washed my tomatoes). Add the pasta and cook until al dente.  Drain and add to the sauce along with the prosciutto and pine nuts.  Toss to combine and soften the cheese.  Add salt and pepper (if you want).  Enjoy!