Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese pasta salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines tender pasta with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, tossed in a light olive oil and balsamic dressing. It’s perfect for summer meals, picnics, or potlucks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1–2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or glaze.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic or red pepper flakes.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or serve immediately at room temperature.
Notes
Add basil just before serving to keep it fresh and bright.Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.For a flavor twist, add a spoonful of pesto instead of olive oil.Great make-ahead option—flavors develop as it chills.Do not freeze; the fresh ingredients don’t hold up well after thawing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Find it online: https://cookibly.com/caprese-pasta-salad/
