Description

Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, inspired by the traditional Italian Caprese salad. With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a light balsamic dressing, this dish transforms into a delightful, crowd-pleasing pasta salad. Whether served as a main course or a side, it’s ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch on a warm day.

Ingredients

• For the Salad:
• 12 ounces pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle work best)
• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional, for added zing)
• For the Dressing:
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for creaminess)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation Method

1. Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside to dry.
2. Halve tomatoes, cut mozzarella into pieces, chop basil, and slice red onion if using.
3. Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and red onion. Add dressing and toss gently.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Toss lightly and garnish with fresh basil.

Tips and Conclusion

Customize Your Salad: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even avocado to turn this salad into a more filling meal. For a vegetarian twist, toss in some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Choose the Right Pasta: Short, sturdy pasta shapes work best as they hold onto the dressing and mix-ins without breaking apart.
Make Ahead: This pasta salad tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or a make-ahead dish for gatherings.
Balsamic Glaze: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving.
Caprese Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that combines the best of Italian flavors into a single, refreshing meal. The combination of pasta, fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all brought together with a tangy balsamic dressing, is sure to delight any crowd. Simple to prepare and easy to adapt, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Pair it with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for a complete meal, and be sure to explore more flavorful recipes on our site!