Description
This creamy Caprese pasta salad combines juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella with perfectly cooked pasta and a light balsamic dressing for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 1 lb small pasta (fusilli, penne, or similar)
- 16 oz mozzarella balls (halved)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil (thinly sliced)
- For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse lightly with cold water to cool.
- Prep the Ingredients: Halve mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes, then add to a large bowl.
- Combine: Add cooled pasta and sliced basil to the bowl and toss gently.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble: Pour dressing over the pasta salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve: Let sit for 20–30 minutes for best flavor, then serve or refrigerate.
Notes
- Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy texture.
- Add basil just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
- Store in the fridge up to 3 days; add a drizzle of olive oil before serving if needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Pasta
- Method: Boil & Toss
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired