Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

Step 2

Add salt, then pasta, stir occasionally.

Step 3

Chop tomatoes and mozzarella and thinly slice garlic (if used)

Step 4

Once pasta is nearly cooked, remove from stove, save 1/4 c pasta water, drain pasta

Step 5

Put saved pasta water, butter, and drained pasta back in pot and give it a good stir

Step 6

Divide butter-coated pasta evenly onto two plates

Step 7

Add chopped tomatoes, mozzarella, and garlic (if used)

Step 8

Thinly slice basil leaves (chiffonade) and add to the dish

Step 9

Finish with a couple cranks of freshly cracked black pepper and drizzle with some extra-virgin olive oil.

Step 10

Serve and enjoy!