Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad recipe is the perfect blend of traditional Italian flavors and the ease of a pasta dish. It’s ideal for a quick family dinner or as a standout dish for gatherings and parties. Thanks to its make-ahead capability, this salad ensures you get a burst of freshness and flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
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Vinaigrette Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Caprese Pasta Salad
- ½ pound dried pasta (farfalle or other small pasta is recommended)
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls, or cubed fresh mozzarella
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, sliced in half
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the pasta firm.
- In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced basil. Drizzle with the prepared vinaigrette dressing and toss everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
Add extra herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g