Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad blends al dente pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s a vibrant and refreshing Italian-inspired dish ideal for picnics, potlucks, or light summer dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini, penne, or bow-tie pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Balsamic Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook according to package directions until it reaches al dente texture.
- Drain and Cool Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down; then drain well to remove excess water.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and emulsified.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, chopped basil, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add Dressing: Pour the balsamic dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve chilled.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and mozzarella balls before serving for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella pearls for the easiest preparation and best texture.
- Add grilled chicken to turn this into a complete, protein-packed meal.
- For extra depth of flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
- If preparing ahead of time, reserve some dressing separately to refresh the salad before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
