Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines pasta with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, dressed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 8 ounces bowtie or penne pasta
Salad:
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then transfer to a large bowl.
- Prepare the Salad: Add cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil to the pasta.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze or vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Chill and Serve: Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze if desired.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken or prosciutto for extra protein.
- Tear basil by hand for best texture.
- Serve cold or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
