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caprese pasta salad​

Caprese Pasta Salad

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This caprese pasta salad is a fresh, easy dish made with pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, all tossed in a light olive oil and balsamic dressing. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for quick lunches, summer meals, and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or cavatappi)
  • cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, gently torn
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (about 8 to 10 minutes). Drain well using a colander and let the pasta cool slightly.
  2. While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, cube or portion the mozzarella if needed, gently tear the basil leaves, and finely mince the garlic.
  3. Add the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and garlic.
  4. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad. Season with salt and black pepper. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Serve immediately or allow the salad to rest for 10 minutes to let the flavors come together. Enjoy slightly cool or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 14gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 420mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g

Notes

  • For best flavor, add basil just before serving.
  • Avoid overdressing to keep the salad light and fresh.
  • Short pasta shapes work best for holding the dressing.

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