Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Combining al dente pasta with creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil, this salad is dressed in a luscious blend of extra virgin olive oil and white balsamic vinegar. Perfect for sunny picnics or as a delightful side at your next barbecue, it’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it at home or sharing with friends, this pasta salad is not just a meal—it’s an experience that celebrates fresh flavors and simple ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Cook the small pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, mozzarella balls, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced basil.
- Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss until well combined.
- Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Find it online: https://chopandcooktips.com/creamy-caprese-pasta-salad/