Description
Caprese Pasta Salad combines the fresh flavors of summer with ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil leaves, tossed with al dente pasta and dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It’s perfect for gatherings and can be served as a light main course or a delicious side dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (typically penne or fusilli)
- Cherry Tomatoes: 2 cups, halved
- Fresh Mozzarella: 8 oz, balls halved
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
- Balsamic Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Balsamic Glaze: Optional, for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente, rinse under cold water and drain.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Dress with olive oil and vinegar, season with salt and pepper.
- Chill until serving, optionally drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use high-quality mozzarella and ripe tomatoes.
- The salad can be customized with additional herbs or ingredients like spinach or arugula.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
Keywords: Caprese, Pasta Salad, Italian Salad, Summer Salad, Tomato, Mozzarella, Basil, Balsamic, Vegetarian, Light Meals