Description
Caprese pasta salad combines tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil with a light balsamic dressing for a fresh Italian-inspired side dish.
Ingredients
12 oz rotini, fusilli, or bow tie pasta
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
8 oz mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or sliced
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until fully cooled.
3. Whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
4. Add the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to a large bowl.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
6. Chill for 15 to 30 minutes before serving, then toss again and serve.
Notes
Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving if you want a stronger caprese flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 25mg