Description
Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with hearty pasta, making it perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep. This easy recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor from fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. With its colorful presentation and satisfying texture, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy it as a side dish or make it a light main course. This versatile salad can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together for an even more delicious experience.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 pound dried small pasta (farfalline or similar)
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls (or cubed fresh mozzarella)
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
Instructions
- In a bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Cook pasta according to package directions in boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced basil.
- Drizzle with vinaigrette dressing and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg