Description
Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer dish, combining the beloved flavors of a classic Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta. This vibrant and refreshing salad is perfect for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, or casual family dinners. With its smooth, creamy dressing and colorful ingredients like fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this recipe not only delivers a delightful taste but also impresses with its presentation. Quick to prepare in just 23 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Make it ahead of time and enjoy it chilled on those hot summer days!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli, penne)
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove garlic
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Combine cooled pasta with mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
- Fold in sliced basil gently.
- Pour dressing over the salad; toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg