Description
A vibrant and refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad made with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a tangy white balsamic dressing. A perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound small pasta (fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup thinly sliced fresh basil
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the fresh basil. If using mozzarella balls, drain the water and cut them in half if needed.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced garlic. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
- Chill and Serve: Let sit for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors or chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving.
Notes
- For added protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or cubed salami.
- Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant can be added for extra flavor.
- Enhance the dressing with a sprinkle of lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Olives, such as Kalamata or green olives, can be mixed in for extra depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
