Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with hearty pasta. It’s perfect for warm days or as a light side dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and gently toss to combine.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or glaze for a tangy twist.
• Include some sliced black olives or roasted pine nuts for extra texture.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, add fresh basil just before serving. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne work well as they hold the ingredients nicely.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Keep the salad refrigerated and add fresh basil right before eating to preserve its flavor and color.

Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 102 reviews

This Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines tender pasta with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side, it captures the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with an easy twist.

• Author: Lara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved or cubed
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 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 pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls, and roughly chop the basil leaves.
3. Toss the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and gently toss everything together until well mixed.
4. Serve: Serve the Caprese Pasta Salad immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• For best flavor, use fresh, high-quality mozzarella and ripe tomatoes.
• You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or reduction for added tanginess.
• Feel free to include a handful of arugula or spinach for extra greens.
• This salad can be made a few hours ahead, but add the basil just before serving to keep its color and flavor vibrant.

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, Italian pasta salad, mozzarella pasta salad, tomato basil pasta salad, easy pasta salad recipe