Easy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and delicious Caprese pasta salad with fresh mozzarella, grape tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 ounces rotini pasta
8 ounces mozzarella pearls or ciliegine
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
⅓ cup fresh basil, sliced thinly
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried basil, garlic powder, sea salt, and cracked black pepper until well combined.
- In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, mozzarella pearls, halved grape tomatoes, and fresh basil.
- Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the ingredients and toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes or until ready to serve.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This salad tastes even better after marinating in the dressing.
- You can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Feel free to add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/easy-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/
