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Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 19 reviews

A vibrant and fresh Caprese Pasta Salad that combines tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all dressed in a simple yet flavorful balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for quick meals, potlucks, or summer picnics, this salad is easy to prepare and customizable to suit various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup pasta (shells, fusilli, or rotini)
  • 1 lb cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 lb fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or ciliegine), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (preferably aged)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente). Once tender, drain and spread on a tray or plate to cool at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to prevent sticking.
  2. Prep Your Veggies: While the pasta cools, slice 1 lb of cherry tomatoes in half using a sharp knife. Cut 1 lb of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Chop 2 tbsp of fresh basil finely to release its aroma.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pieces, and chopped basil. Toss gently to mix without crushing the cheese.
  4. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar and 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil until fully emulsified. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and sprinkle 1 tsp of kosher salt evenly on top. Adjust salt to taste.
  5. Toss and Serve: Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are well coated in the dressing. For best flavor, let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving; otherwise, serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use the freshest ingredients you can find, ideally from a local farmers’ market, for best flavor.
  • If fresh mozzarella is unavailable, burrata can be used for a creamier texture.
  • Allow mozzarella to come to room temperature before plating for a softer bite.
  • Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain a firm texture that holds up well in the salad.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
  • Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days; flavors deepen over time.
  • Rinse pasta briefly under cold water if it becomes sticky, but serve warm for optimal dressing absorption.
  • Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch if desired.
  • Try heirloom or colorful tomatoes for a visually appealing variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, Pasta Salad, Fresh Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, Basil, Balsamic Vinaigrette, Quick Salad, Italian Salad, Summer Salad, Vegetarian

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/