Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

6 servings
This fresh and easy salad combines all the classic flavors of a Caprese Salad with pasta! Perfect for a simple family meal or when feeding a crowd this make-ahead recipe for the best Caprese Pasta Salad delivers a burst of flavor everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    ¼ c
  • balsamic vinegar
    ¼ c
  • fresh lemon juice
    2 tbsp
  • minced garlic
    1 clove
  • italian seasoning
    1 tsp
  • kosher salt
    ¼ tsp
  • black pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • dried pasta (farfalle or other small pasta works best
    ½ lb
  • mozzarella pearls (or cubed fresh mozzarella
    8 oz
  • grape tomatoes sliced in half
    2 c
  • fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
    ¼ c
  • salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. 1

    To a small bowl or jar with a lid, add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until all ingredients are incorporated. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

  3. 3

    To a large bowl add cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil. Drizzle with vinaigrette dressing and toss. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately.

Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

22 min6 servings336 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a fresh, vibrant dish that's both effortless and utterly satisfying? This Caprese Pasta Salad is your answer, blending the iconic flavors of Caprese with hearty pasta for a meal that truly delivers a burst of flavor.

What makes this recipe stand out is its seamless combination of classic Caprese ingredients with the versatility of pasta, creating a substantial yet incredibly refreshing salad. It's designed to be a make-ahead marvel, ensuring you can enjoy fantastic flavors without last-minute fuss, perfect for simple family meals or feeding a crowd.

Expect a symphony of textures and tastes: tender pasta mingled with creamy mozzarella pearls, bright, juicy grape tomatoes, and the aromatic freshness of basil. Each bite is coated in a zesty dressing made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a hint of garlic and Italian seasoning. This salad offers a delightful balance, making it a crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet yet is incredibly easy to prepare.

Customization & Variations

This Caprese Pasta Salad is wonderfully adaptable. While farfalle is suggested, feel free to use any other small pasta shape like rotini or penne. If mozzarella pearls aren't available, cubed fresh mozzarella works beautifully. For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the grape tomatoes slightly before adding them, though fresh sliced halves are delightful as is.

This salad is fantastic on its own as a light lunch or dinner, but it also makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or a robust main course. Its vibrant colors and fresh appeal make it a perfect addition to any potluck or backyard gathering.

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