Caprese Pasta Salad

Why Make This Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors of basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella. It’s easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch or a side at dinner. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its bright colors. Making it at home allows you to use fresh ingredients and customize it to your liking.

How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil
• 60 ml balsamic vinegar
• 30–45 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 225 g dried farfalle pasta, or other small pasta
• 225 g mozzarella pearls or fresh mozzarella, diced
• 2 cups (approx. 300 g) grape tomatoes, halved
• 15 g fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a small bowl or sealable jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper until everything is mixed well. Set this vinaigrette aside.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and run it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella, and sliced basil. Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the top and gently toss everything together until it’s evenly coated. You can add more salt and pepper to adjust the taste as needed.

How to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad

Serve your Caprese Pasta Salad on a large platter or in individual bowls. It is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Consider topping it with a few extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added touch.

How to Store Caprese Pasta Salad

Leftover Caprese Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to blend, but it’s best to eat it fresh.

Tips to Make Caprese Pasta Salad

• For a creamier texture, use fresh mozzarella instead of mozzarella pearls.
• You can add other fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for more crunch.
• To make it heartier, consider adding some grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by using different types of pasta, like penne or rotini. Adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes can also give it a unique flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use different cheese in this salad?
Yes, you could use feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and is great for lunches throughout the week.

3. Can I make it vegan?
Yes, by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative, you can easily make this a vegan dish.

Caprese Pasta Salad

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A delightful dish combining fresh flavors of basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella, perfect for a quick lunch or a side at dinner.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil
• 60 ml balsamic vinegar
• 30–45 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 225 g dried farfalle pasta (or other small pasta)
• 225 g mozzarella pearls or fresh mozzarella, diced
• 2 cups (approx. 300 g) grape tomatoes, halved
• 15 g fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl or sealable jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper until mixed well. Set aside the vinaigrette.
2. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella, and sliced basil. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the top and gently toss until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Notes

Best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Consider adding extra basil or Parmesan for garnish.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg