Why Make This Recipe
Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that combines the classic flavors of traditional Caprese salad with pasta. It’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a light meal. The combination of basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a delightful taste that’s both satisfying and healthy. Plus, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weekdays or special occasions.
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil
- 60 ml balsamic vinegar
- 30–45 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 225 g dried farfalle pasta, or other small pasta
- 225 g mozzarella pearls or fresh mozzarella, diced
- 2 cups (approx. 300 g) grape tomatoes, halved
- 15 g fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or sealable jar until emulsified. Set aside.
- Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water following package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold running water to cool and prevent overcooking.
- Combine the cooled pasta, halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced basil in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with prepared vinaigrette and toss gently until all components are evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper as required.
How to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad
Serve Caprese Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a wonderful side dish for grilled meats or a light main course on its own. Garnish with extra basil leaves for added color and flavor, and enjoy!
How to Store Caprese Pasta Salad
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the pasta may absorb some dressing, so you might want to add a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar when you serve it again.
Tips to Make Caprese Pasta Salad
- Make sure to rinse the pasta in cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep the pasta firm.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the basil and tomatoes.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and balsamic vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
Variation
This salad can be easily modified by adding other ingredients such as grilled chicken for protein, olives for a salty kick, or bell peppers for extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge and serve it when you’re ready.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or orecchiette.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.