Caprese Pasta Salad combines the beloved flavors of a classic Italian Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta. This refreshing dish is perfect for warm summer days, picnics, or as a light weeknight dinner. Featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, aromatic fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing, this pasta salad is not only easy to make but also delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients:
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or fusilli pasta
Salad Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it quickly and stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and red onion if using.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
Step 4: Combine
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad.
- Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Serve
- The salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Variation
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Add a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad a complete meal.
- Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, arugula, or diced bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Cooking Note:
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain its texture in the salad.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this Caprese Pasta Salad as a standalone light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood.
- It’s perfect for potlucks, outdoor barbecues, or as a refreshing addition to any meal.
Tips:
- Marinate the mozzarella balls in olive oil, garlic, and herbs beforehand to infuse more flavor.
- If making ahead, add fresh basil just before serving to keep it vibrant and green.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Protein: 12 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this salad up to a day in advance, but it’s best to add the basil and a final dressing toss just before serving to maintain freshness.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a flavorful dish. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or just making a quick dinner, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the burst of Italian flavors with each bite of this summery, satisfying salad.
PrintCaprese Pasta Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or fusilli pasta
Salad Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it quickly and stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and red onion if using.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
Step 4: Combine
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad.
- Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Serve
- The salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Variation
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Add a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad a complete meal.
- Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, arugula, or diced bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain its texture in the salad.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this Caprese Pasta Salad as a standalone light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood.
- It’s perfect for potlucks, outdoor barbecues, or as a refreshing addition to any meal.
Tips:
- Marinate the mozzarella balls in olive oil, garlic, and herbs beforehand to infuse more flavor.
- If making ahead, add fresh basil just before serving to keep it vibrant and green.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Protein: 12 g
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