Description
A vibrant and refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for picnics, lunches, or a light dinner, this easy-to-make salad brings the taste of summer to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (such as rotini, penne, or farfalle), cooked according to package directions and cooled
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved or quartered if large
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella balls.
- Add the chopped fresh basil to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture.
- Season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
- Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- For best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- You can add other vegetables like cucumber or red onion for extra crunch.
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving adds a beautiful finish.
- Ensure pasta is completely cooled before mixing to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook (except for pasta)
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 400-450 calories (will vary based on pasta and oil quantities)
- Sugar: Low
- Sodium: Moderate
- Fat: High
- Saturated Fat: Moderate
- Unsaturated Fat: High
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
- Fiber: Low
- Protein: Moderate
- Cholesterol: Moderate