Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad, a perfect dish for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners. This vibrant salad combines tender pasta with succulent cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a delightful homemade dressing featuring olive oil and white balsamic vinegar. Ready in just over 20 minutes, this recipe is not only simple but also customizable—add grilled chicken for protein or switch to plant-based mozzarella for a vegan option. Whether served as a light lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue, this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is sure to impress family and friends with its fresh taste and colorful presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and cool under cold water.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well combined.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Find it online: https://kitchenmealplan.com/creamy-caprese-pasta-salad/