Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad features al dente pasta, cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal, and easy to prepare in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt).
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Set a timer to avoid overcooking.
- Prepare a large bowl filled with ice water to cool the pasta.
- Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and immediately transfer it to the ice water. Let it cool for a few minutes.
- After cooling, drain the pasta again and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes and slice them in half.
- Halve the fresh mozzarella balls.
- Wash and roughly chop the fresh basil leaves.
- In the bowl with the cooled pasta, add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
- Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and gently toss to combine, using a spatula to avoid breaking the pasta.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or balsamic vinegar as desired.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a couple of hours) to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. If it seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or balsamic vinegar.
- Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with extra basil leaves.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so consider adding more olive oil or vinegar when serving again.
- Feel free to customize with additional ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for a Mediterranean twist. For added protein, consider grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes