Description
Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect dish to celebrate summer flavors while keeping things light and refreshing. This delightful salad blends al dente pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, all tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, attending a barbecue, or simply looking for a quick dinner option, this versatile salad is sure to impress. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy summer days.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove garlic
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until well coated.
- Let sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg