Caprese Pasta Salad
Bright, fresh, and bursting with Mediterannean flavors, this Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect marriage of Italian classics in a single, refreshing dish. Tender al dente penne pasta forms the base, tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil chiffonade. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and tangy balsamic glaze ties it all together, while a hint of garlic and perfectly balanced seasoning takes this salad to the next level. Ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, or light weekday meals, this quick 25-minute recipe offers an elegant yet easy way to enjoy the timeless flavors of a Caprese salad. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Keywords: Caprese Pasta Salad recipe, quick pasta salad, summer salad ideas, Italian pasta salads.
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Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 9-10 minutes.
Step 2
Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3
Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the pasta.
Step 4
Cut the fresh mozzarella balls in half and add them to the bowl.
Step 5
Chiffonade (thinly slice) the fresh basil leaves and add them to the salad.
Step 6
Mince the garlic cloves finely and mix them into the salad for added flavor.
Step 7
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the pasta and toss gently to combine.
Step 8
Season the salad with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 9
Transfer the Caprese Pasta Salad to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh basil for decoration if desired.
Step 10
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (971.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2297.0 |
| Total Fat 89.4g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 30.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 121.5mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2790.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 292.6g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 17.0g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 35.2g | |
| Protein 87.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 903.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 15.7mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1770.9mg | 0% |
Source of Calories