Description
This vibrant Caprese pasta salad is a quick, flavor-packed dish that can be ready in under 30 minutes. Combining mini mozzarella pearls, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, this salad not only tantalizes the taste buds but also delights the eyes with its colorful presentation. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light weeknight dinner, this dish brings together simple ingredients for a refreshing experience that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly—allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge. Enjoy it as a satisfying main course or pair it with grilled meats for a delicious side.
Ingredients
- 1 pound short pasta (fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup slivered fresh basil
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 garlic clove (pressed or minced)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse lightly with cold water.
- While pasta cooks, halve the mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes. In a mixing bowl, combine them.
- Add cooled pasta and slivered basil into the mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour over the pasta mixture.
- Toss gently until everything is coated. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch. For added protein, include grilled chicken or chickpeas. This salad can last up to three days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.