Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of classic Caprese flavors and hearty pasta, making it the perfect dish for any gathering. With vibrant colors from fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, this salad is both visually appealing and delicious. It’s quick to prepare in just 22 minutes, allowing you to whip it up for a summer BBQ, a light weeknight dinner, or as a make-ahead option for picnics. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course—this versatile salad is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 pound dried pasta (farfalle or rotini)
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls
- 2 cups grape tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 –3 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until combined.
- Cook the pasta in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil. Drizzle with vinaigrette dressing and toss gently until well mixed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately for optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg