This Caprese Pasta Salad blends the flavors of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil with a simple, tangy vinaigrette, making it the perfect dish for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. It’s a delightful option for potlucks, barbecues, or a refreshing lunch. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
Vinaigrette Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Caprese Pasta Salad:
- ½ pound dried pasta (farfalle or another small pasta is recommended)
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls, or cubed fresh mozzarella
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, sliced in half
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk or shake the mixture until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the pasta firm.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced basil.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together until well mixed.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Tips for Best Results
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes are key to getting that classic Caprese flavor.
- Chill the Salad: For extra flavor, chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to let the vinaigrette meld with the pasta and veggies.
- Add Protein: To turn this into a more filling meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the salad a day in advance, but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the pasta from soaking up too much liquid.
What other types of pasta can I use?
Any small pasta like rotini, penne, or orecchiette will work well in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Enjoy this refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!