Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad combining al dente pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for summer meals, picnics, or as a delightful side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Dairy
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 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 until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the Ingredients: While pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Chop the fresh basil leaves finely.
- Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with the olive oil and balsamic glaze. Gently toss to combine everything evenly.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix once more to distribute seasonings thoroughly.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature as desired.
Notes
- Use a high-quality balsamic glaze for a richer flavor and beautiful presentation.
- Fresh mozzarella can be substituted with shredded mozzarella if bocconcini is unavailable, though the texture will be different.
- You can add a splash of lemon juice or zest for an extra brightness.
- This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
- For a vegan version, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives.
Keywords: Caprese Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad, Italian Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Summer Salad, Easy Pasta Recipe
Find it online: https://dylangranv.com/caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/
