Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 lbbowtie pasta
- 2 pintscherry tomatoes
sliced in half
- 8 ozsmall mozzarella cheese balls
ciliegine
- ½ cbasil leaves
thinly sliced
- 3 tbspwhite wine vinegar
- 2 tspgranulated sugar
- ½ tspgarlic powder
- 1 tspkosher salt
- fresh ground black pepper
- 3 tbspolive oil
- 3 tbspneutral oil
like grapeseed or organic canola or vegetable oil**
- ½ cshredded parmesan cheese
- add-in: stir in a few drizzles balsamic reduction
Directions
- 1
Start a large pot of well-salted water to boil. Boil the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and run cool water over it until it’s room temperature.
- 2
Meanwhile, slice the tomatoes in half. Thinly slice the basil. Drain the mozzarella balls.
- 3
In a large bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, granulated sugar, garlic powder, kosher salt, and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Then whisk in the olive oil and neutral oil.
- 4
Once the pasta is done, add it to the large bowl of dressing and toss with the chopped tomatoes, basil (unless you’re making it in advance), mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Taste and add more salt to taste if necessary. Serve immediately. Stores up to 4 days refrigerated, but the basil does become brown over time. If making ahead, omit the basil and add just before serving. To revive leftovers, allow to come to room temperature, then stir in more chopped basil, a drizzle olive oil, handful Parmesan cheese, and a few pinches of salt.
Caprese Pasta Salad
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About this Recipe
Craving the vibrant, fresh tastes of summer in a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour? This Caprese Pasta Salad is your answer, bringing together classic Italian flavors in a crowd-pleasing side that’s perfect for any occasion.
What makes this Caprese pasta salad truly shine is its celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy small mozzarella balls (ciliegine), and fragrant fresh basil leaves are the stars. These come together with a bright, balanced dressing, creating a refreshing harmony of flavors and textures that feels like a taste of the season in every bite.
Expect a delightful medley of tender pasta, bursting ripe tomatoes, and soft, milky mozzarella, all enrobed in a light and tangy dressing. The fresh basil provides an aromatic lift, while a hint of garlic powder, white wine vinegar, and a touch of sugar in the dressing ensures a well-rounded flavor profile that's both savory and subtly sweet. It’s a beautifully colorful and satisfying side dish that invites you to enjoy the simple pleasures of summer eating.
Feel free to customize this Caprese pasta salad to suit your pantry or preferences. While bowtie pasta offers a classic look, any short, sturdy pasta shape would work wonderfully. You can elevate the richness by stirring in some shredded parmesan cheese, or for an extra layer of gourmet flavor, a few drizzles of balsamic reduction make a fantastic add-in. If you don't have white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
This refreshing Caprese pasta salad is an ideal companion for backyard barbecues, picnics, or any family gathering. Serve it alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light and flavorful dish on its own. Its beautiful colors also make for an inviting presentation.