Description
Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing summer recipe combining cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and pasta tossed in a light balsamic dressing. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or meal prep, this easy pasta salad is vibrant, satisfying, and full of Italian flavors.
Ingredients
1 pound pasta (fusilli or rotini preferred)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
1 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced thin
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the basil into ribbons. Drain mozzarella balls if needed.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss everything gently to coat evenly.
6. Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes before serving.
7. Toss once more before serving and drizzle extra balsamic if desired.
Notes
Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella and basil for best flavor.
This salad tastes even better after it’s chilled for a bit.
If making ahead, add basil right before serving to keep it fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Pasta Salad
- Method: No Bake / Tossed
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg