Print

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad
Print Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing summer dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad—ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil—with tender pasta and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick dinners, this salad is easy to prepare, light yet satisfying, and visually stunning with its mix of reds, whites, and greens.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz bite-sized pasta such as rotini or penne

Fresh Produce

  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or sliced

Dairy

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls or cubed fresh mozzarella

Dressings and Seasonings

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bite-sized pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, tear or slice the fresh basil leaves, and cut the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces if using larger balls or blocks.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pieces, and basil leaves. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Add Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad to add a perfect balance of tangy sweetness. Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients without breaking the delicate mozzarella.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve cold for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality tomatoes and basil for maximum flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta to keep it al dente and prevent mushiness.
  • Adjust olive oil and balsamic glaze quantities according to your taste preference.
  • Chilling the salad enhances flavor melding but avoid over-chilling to prevent mozzarella from toughening.
  • Keep the salad refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese Pasta Salad, Italian salad, summer pasta salad, fresh mozzarella salad, easy pasta recipes, summer side dish

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/caprese-pasta-salad/