Delicious Caprese Pasta Salad. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients, combining juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, making it a perfect choice for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch.
One sunny afternoon, I was craving the fresh taste of a Caprese salad but wanted something a bit more substantial. As I stared at the ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil on my counter, an idea sparked – why not combine these flavors with pasta? The result was a revelation! The pasta soaks up the tangy dressing, the mozzarella becomes irresistibly creamy, and the tomatoes burst with sweetness. It’s become a staple in our household, especially during the summer when the garden is overflowing with fresh produce.
This Caprese Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s a perfect dish for those who love quick and tasty recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will impress your family and friends. So, let’s get started and bring a taste of Italy to your table!
Recipe Summary
This Best Caprese Pasta Salad combines al dente pasta with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Exciting Story
One summer, our garden was bursting with tomatoes and basil, and I was looking for a way to showcase these fresh ingredients. My husband suggested we try something new, and that’s how this Caprese Pasta Salad was born. As we sat down to enjoy it, the combination of flavors transported us back to our honeymoon in Italy. It was a hit with the whole family, and now it’s a go-to recipe whenever we need a taste of summer.
Why This Caprese Pasta Salad?
Selling Points:
- Fresh and Vibrant: Made with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, main course, or even a picnic favorite.
Ingredients:
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.