Description
Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful summer dish that brings together al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all beautifully drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This vibrant salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal on warm days. With its fresh flavors and colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Toss gently.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper; toss again to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg