Description
Caprese Pasta Salad blends the classic Italian Caprese salad flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil with pasta for a refreshing and satisfying dish. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch.
Ingredients
8 ounces of pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced fresh mozzarella cheese, and thinly sliced basil leaves.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar according to your preference.
Chill:
Once everything is well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Final Touch:
Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your delicious Caprese Pasta Salad as a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish alongside your favorite grilled meats or seafood. 
Notes
- For a more robust flavor, let the salad marinate for a few hours in the fridge.
- Balsamic vinegar can be reduced to a glaze with a bit of sugar if balsamic glaze is not available.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg