Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
A quick, family-friendly pasta salad featuring creamy mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls) Use fresh for best flavor.
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced Essential for flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.
Notes
For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-5 days. Serve chilled or warm if preferred. Substitutions can be made for mozzarella, pasta type, or added spices for personal taste.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!