Description

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect summer dish that combines fresh ingredients with a rich, creamy dressing. This vibrant salad features delightful bursts of flavor from juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, making it an excellent choice for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches. With its colorful presentation and quick preparation time, this dish will impress your guests at any gathering. Enjoy it chilled on warm days or as a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a standalone meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
16 ounces mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
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)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
In a mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and sliced basil.
Whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic in a small bowl.
Add cooled pasta to the mixing bowl and pour the dressing over; toss gently until well coated.
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 180g)
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 30mg