Easy Caprese Pasta Salad
This recipe provides instructions for a fresh, simple Caprese Pasta Salad featuring tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a light balsamic dressing. It is suitable for picnics or quick summer meals.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Total Time: 25 min
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook Assembly
- Cuisine: Italian Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rotini or small pasta shape
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz small fresh mozzarella balls (pearls), drained
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool completely.
- While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a high-quality aged balsamic vinegar for the dressing.
- If you prefer a thicker dressing, reduce the balsamic vinegar slightly or add a small drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.
- You can add cooked, shredded chicken breast to make this a main dish.
- This salad tastes best when served cold or at cool room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 13
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 12
- Cholesterol: 15