Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners, this salad bursts with flavor and can be made in just a few simple steps. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, it’s sure to impress guests and family alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- While the pasta cools, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes and tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or chickpeas. To enhance flavors, allow the salad to sit at room temperature before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.