Amazing Caprese Pasta Salad: 1 Unforgettable Bite
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant, Italian-inspired side dish combining ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil with pasta, perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook (after pasta)
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces pasta (such as rotini, penne, or farfalle)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or torn
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and halved mozzarella balls.
- Add the fresh basil leaves to the bowl.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. If using, add the minced garlic.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the mozzarella balls in a little olive oil and garlic for 30 minutes before adding them to the salad.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of pesto to the salad instead of, or in addition to, the balsamic glaze.
- This salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Find it online: https://flavorvista.com/caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/