Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls, and roughly chop the basil leaves.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://familyfavplates.com/caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/
